Children Under Stress: Preventing ACEs and Supporting Childhood Well-Being

Our nation’s children are under stress. Every year an estimated 3 million children in the United States are exposed to shootings and millions more are living with the far-reaching effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, more than 200,000 American children are now orphans, having lost a parent or primary caregiver to the pandemic.

The number of families experiencing hardships, including unemployment, food insecurity, and housing instability, rose during the pandemic, with a disproportionate impact on Latino and Black communities. Compounding these stressors are the adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) that most children experience at least once in their lifetime, such as neglect and abuse. Trauma experienced during childhood can have a lasting impact on health and well-being. At least five of the leading causes of death are associated with ACEs. This webinar explored actionable strategies to prevent ACEs and programs to support children and break the cycle of adversity. Speakers discussed:

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s investments in implementing ACEs prevention strategies and opportunities for cross-sector involvement
• Evidence-based actions that can create safe, equitable, and engaging learning environments, including trauma-sensitive schools
• Establishing community programs and partnerships to build social and emotional learning and skills