Shaleena Tareen is the founder and president of Childhood Matters, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the mental and emotional health of children and youth. As a passionate children’s mental health advocate, she believes every child should have access to the mental health resources they need to thrive. Her vision for Childhood Matters is to ensure all children receive the support necessary for their social-emotional development and overall well-being through early intervention and practical coping strategies.
Shaleena holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business and Early Childhood Education, with over 25 years of experience in Early Childhood Education (ECE). She has owned and operated her own childcare center and directed private preschools and Head Start programs in Los Angeles. She is skilled in educational administration, coaching teachers on curriculum and behavior management, and working with parents to provide positive parenting solutions.
In addition to her leadership in ECE, Shaleena is the author of The Learning Steps, a children’s book on growth mindset, and has written parenting articles for LA Parent Magazine. She also conducts workshops for parents, educators, and students on social-emotional wellness, mental health awareness, self-care strategies, and recognizing early signs of mental health challenges.
