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Reply to "Advice: How to survey kids experiencing foster care (ACEs and Resiliency)?"

My question is, "For the sake of what?".... I think that has to be really clear up front. Generally, the tools we offer to people with high ACES benefit EVERYONE...it is the way everyone should be treated: with dignity and respect.

Knowing about ACES is really helpful for systems so they can improve their structures to make sure each person is treated with dignity and respect, and it is really helpful to individuals so that they can know they aren't crazy or defective - the brain really does adapt to its environment. If you've experienced a lot of adversity, your brain will have adapted. That means that some things you'll be a lot better at (picking up subtle non verbal signals, responding quickly) and somethings you won't be as good at (e.g., being able to easily self regulate, letting go of small things that might not have been personal but seem personal, holding onto hope and optimism).

So asking why/how knowing the ACE score will empower the CASAs upfront will determine next steps. Maybe it will be helpful to get numbers. Maybe they just need to know that many people have high ACES and the kids and families they work with tend to have much higher ACES. They need to understand the brain biology and know real tools that are useful for everyone, but especially important for those with high ACEs.

Jody McVittie

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