ACES AWARNESS
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) have a tremendous impact on future violence victimization and perpetration, and lifelong health and opportunity. Working together, we can help create neighborhoods, communities, and a world in which every child can thrive.
become ace aware
aCES RISK fACTORS
Did you know that negative experiences in childhood and the teenage years may put children at risk for chronic health problems, mental illness, and substance use in adulthood? These negative experiences are known as adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). ACEs are potentially traumatic experiences, such as neglect, experiencing or witnessing violence, and having a family member attempt or die by suicide, that occur in childhood (birth to 17) that can affect children for years and impact their life opportunities. Fortunately, we can prevent ACEs and we can educate parents, communities, and policymakers about how to help children grow up in a safe and stable environment.
ACES PREVENTION
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) can have lasting, negative effects on health, well-being, and opportunity. ACEs and their associated harms are preventable. Creating and sustaining safe, stable, nurturing relationships and environments for all children and families can prevent ACEs and help all children reach their full health and life potential.
Different types of violence are connected and often share the same root causes. ACEs are connected to other forms of violence through shared risk and protective factors. In order to prevent ACEs, we must understand and address these risk and protective factors.
ACES FACTS
Adverse childhood experiences, or ACEs, are potentially traumatic events that occur in childhood (0-17 years). For example:
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experiencing violence, abuse, or neglect
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witnessing violence in the home or community
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having a family member attempt or die by suicide
Also included are aspects of the child’s environment that can undermine their sense of safety, stability, and bonding, such as growing up in a household with:
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substance use problems
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mental health problems
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instability due to parental separation or household members being in jail or prison
ACES YOUTH AT RISK
Youth-serving and faith-based organizations, coaches, and caregivers can help prevent adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Raising awareness of ACEs in communities about how to prevent these experiences can help children and youth grow up and thrive in a safe and stable environment.
