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2.01.2025

Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs): How Families Can Help Their Kids Succeed

As parents, caregivers and family members, we all want the best for the children in our lives. However, it’s important to realize that children’s well-being can be deeply affected by difficult experiences they face in their early years. 

One way to understand this better is through the idea of Adverse Childhood Experiences, or ACEs. These are events that can be very hard for children, but the good news is that families can make a big difference in helping kids feel better and grow strong.

What Are Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)?

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are things that happen to kids before the age of 18 that are harmful or traumatic. These experiences can affect a child’s mental, emotional and physical health. ACEs are usually grouped into three types:

1. Abuse: This includes physical, emotional and sexual abuse. If a child is hurt, mistreated or controlled in a harmful way, that counts as abuse.
2. Neglect: Neglect happens when a caregiver doesn’t, or can’t, provide the basic needs of a child. This could mean not providing enough food, not making sure the child feels loved, or not ensuring the child’s safety.
3. Household Dysfunction: This includes living in a home where there is violence, substance abuse, mental illness, or someone in prison. Children in these homes may feel scared, confused or anxious.

Why Are ACEs Important?

ACEs can have a big effect on a child’s life. Studies have shown that children who go through a lot of ACEs may face problems later in life, including:

• Health Issues: Kids with ACEs are more likely to have serious health problems when they’re older, such as heart disease or diabetes. This is because stressful experiences can change how the brain and body work.
• Mental Health Struggles: ACEs can also lead to mental health problems like anxiety, depression, or trouble coping with stress. These problems can continue into adulthood.
• School and Social Problems: Children with ACEs may have trouble focusing in school or making friends. They might act out or feel sad, which can affect their relationships with others.

A recent study from the University of Nevada Reno School of Public Health and the Nevada Institute for Children’s Research and Policy at UNLV, as part of the Essential for Childhood project, found the following from a review of the 2023 Nevada Youth Risk Behavior Survey:

• More than 73% of Nevada middle school students and more than 77% of Nevada high school students had at least one adverse childhood experience (ACE).
• More than 24% of Nevada middle school students and 36% of Nevada high school students had experienced three or more ACEs.
• Middle and high school students who have one or more ACEs are more likely to have negative health outcomes, including substance use and poor mental health.

However, just because a child experiences ACEs doesn’t mean they’ll always face these problems. Having support from caring adults can help children heal and grow strong again.

How Can Families Support Children Affected by ACEs?

As a parent or caregiver, there are many ways you can help your child feel safe and supported. By offering love, understanding and stability, you can help your child cope with the impact of ACEs. Here are some ways you can support your child:

1. Create a Safe and Stable Environment

Children who go through ACEs often feel scared or unsure of what’s going to happen next. One of the most important things you can do is to provide a stable and safe environment. This means keeping routines and being consistent with your actions. When children know what to expect, they feel safer and less anxious.

2. Talk Openly and Show Love

Children need to know they are loved and that their feelings matter. Take time to talk to your child about how they’re feeling and listen to them without judgment. When your child is upset, offer comfort and reassurance. Even simple words like “I’m here for you” can make a huge difference. Always remind your child that it’s okay to have emotions, and it’s important to express them.

Also, pay attention to how you communicate. Sometimes your body language or facial expressions can say more than words. By showing your child they are cared for, you’ll help them feel more secure and understood.

3. Be a Positive Role Model

Children learn by watching the adults around them. If they see you managing stress in a calm and healthy way, they’re more likely to learn those same skills. Show your child how to handle difficult feelings, whether by taking deep breaths, going for a walk, or talking through problems. When children see positive examples, they are more likely to use those methods to deal with their own challenges.

4. Encourage Healthy Relationships

Children who experience ACEs might struggle to trust others or build friendships. As a parent, it’s important to help your child form healthy relationships with others. Encourage them to spend time with friends and engage in activities that help them learn social skills, like playing sports, joining a club, or participating in group activities.

It’s also important for your child to have other trusted adults in their life. Grandparents, aunts, uncles and family friends can all provide support and help your child feel more connected.

5. Offer Emotional and Behavioral Support

Sometimes children with ACEs might act out, have trouble focusing, or seem very upset. It’s important to approach these behaviors with understanding and kindness, not punishment. If your child’s emotions feel overwhelming, talking to a counselor or therapist could be really helpful. A professional can help your child find healthy ways to express their feelings and work through challenges.

6. Encourage Healthy Routines

Physical health is closely tied to emotional well-being. Make sure your child gets enough sleep, eats healthy foods, and gets exercise every day. Healthy habits can help your child manage stress and feel better overall. Having a routine that includes time for school, play, rest and family time will also help your child feel secure and know what to expect each day.

7. Learn More About ACEs and Trauma

The more you know about ACEs and trauma, the better you’ll be at supporting your child. Take time to learn about how childhood experiences can affect kids, and explore ways to help them heal. The more informed you are, the better you’ll be at providing the right support.

8. Work With Your Child’s School and Community

Your child’s school can be an important source of support. Teachers, counselors and social workers can help your child deal with their emotions and provide extra help if needed. Stay in touch with your child’s school and make sure they have everything they need to succeed. Also, community programs like sports teams, clubs, or after-school programs can provide extra opportunities for your child to feel supported and learn new skills.

The Power of Positive Interactions

The most important thing to remember is that positive interactions with your child can make a big difference. Small things like giving a hug, playing together, or even just listening carefully can help your child feel loved and cared for. These positive moments help children feel strong and resilient, even in tough situations.

Supporting a child who has faced ACEs can be challenging, but the good news is that with your love, care and support, your child can heal and grow stronger. Children who face adversity can still thrive when they have the right kind of care and attention. Your guidance can help them become confident, healthy individuals who are ready to face the world with hope and strength.

In the end, the most important thing is your relationship with your child. By building trust, offering love, and being there for them, you’ll help them overcome the difficulties they’ve faced and give them the tools to succeed in life.

If you need support, First 5 Nevada is here to help! Learn about programs, services, and resources that can help you and your children thrive! And if you need additional help finding the resources that are right for your family, Contact Us! Send us a note and one of our First 5 Nevada Community Navigators will contact you by phone or email to provide you with the assistance you need.