Restoring
Opportunities &
Overcoming
Trauma
Systematically
ROOTS, a collaborative initiative between TA98 and the Erikson Institute designed to address early childhood mental health challenges by transforming the systems that impact families and communities.
ROOTS is part of TA98’s commitment to holistically supporting families and youth. Addressing early childhood mental health, we help build a strong foundation for academic success, career readiness, and community leadership.
What We Offer
ROOTS provides workshops and training sessions on early childhood development & mental health topics in community schools, nonprofit organizations, and community spaces in the south & southwest side of Chicago. These workshops, led by Erikson Institute clinicians, are available in English and Spanish and cover topics such as:
Understanding Childhood Trauma Teaching with Compassion
The Impact of Machismo & Toxic Masculinity on Early Childhood
Healing the Healers: Self-Care for Service Providers and Teachers Socio-Emotional Development & Challenging Behaviors
Healthy parenting
CUSTOM — We will also design and co-create workshops based on your community's needs.
OUR APPROACH
ROOTS is guided by the re-mediation framework, which shifts the focus from "fixing" individuals to strengthening systems that contribute to inequities.
This includes:
Community Partnerships: Working with local organizations to address systemic causes of mental health challenges, such as poverty and historical trauma.
School-Based Interventions: Embedding restorative justice practices in schools to create inclusive and supportive environments.
Classroom-Based Assessments: Identifying needs and tailoring interventions to support children's unique experiences.
Referrals & Wraparound Support: Connecting children and families with holistic services that promote long-term well-being.
Our Team
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Assistant Professor, Erikson Institute.
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Director of Education, TA98
Project Manager, Erikson Institute -
IECMHC, ROOTS Initiative Clinician
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ROOTS Initiative Clinician