This course provides first-hand knowledge of early life and teaches close observation which is necessary in all therapeutic endeavors. The main teaching materials or tools for Infant Observation are the baby, its family, and the power of observation. Trainees will be given guidelines for selecting an appropriate family to observe for the duration of the academic year. Observations can be done in-person or using a video platform. 

Trainees may also be assigned a variety of scholarly readings from modern experts and foundational thinkers in the field of Infant Observation. Students are expected to participate in class discussion during each session and may be required to submit weekly written homework assignments to their instructors, in which they summarize and reflect upon that week's observation experiences and class discussions.

Infant Observation Goals and Learning Outcomes

Participants in this program will:

•  Gain an important professional and foundational experience for developing therapists

• Explore close observation as a learning tool and its importance for all clinicians

• Deepen knowledge of infant and family relationships through classroom discussions of the observation experiences

• Experience early life development and parent/baby relationships and how they develop

• Discuss how observations inform clinical practice and develop additional insight into the theories and techniques used in clinical work

Admission Criteria and Requirements

CAPA’s Infant Observation Program is open to all currently enrolled CAPA students at any level and all graduates of CAPA’s Basic and/or Advanced Training Programs. Students submit a brief application form to be considered for the program.

CAPA’s Infant Observation Program is currently on hiatus until further notice.