If you’ve learned about trauma, you may be familiar with the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). These negative experiences increase the risk of developing chronic health problems and addictive behaviors in adulthood. But did you know that Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs) have the power to protect children from the toxic stress related to traumatic events? PCEs can help children avoid risky behavior while, in turn, promoting self-esteem. Children with PCEs become adults who seek social and emotional support when needed.
The seven PCEs are:
- The ability to talk with family about feelings
- The sense that family is supportive during difficult times
- The enjoyment of participation in community traditions
- Feeling a sense of belonging in school
- Feeling supported by friends
- Having at least two non-parent adults who genuinely care
- Feeling safe and protected by an adult in the home
Children and youth with traumatic backgrounds often have complicated relationships with their parents or other adults, but having healthy relationships with adults is essential to growth. PCEs build self-esteem in children and youth by reinforcing that they are valued and that the world is generally safe and welcoming. This cultivates positive self-regard, which is the foundation of self-esteem. By providing consistent love and support, parents can make an enormous difference in a child’s well-being now and in the future.
Recommended Resources
From the Resource Library
- Building Self-Esteem in Children and Teens Who Are Adopted or Fostered, by Dr. Sue Cornbluth
- Liking Myself, by Pat Palmer, Ed.D.
- Building a Positive Self-Concept: 113 Activities for Adolescents, by Majorie Jacobs, Blossom Turk & Elizabeth Horn
Training From Champion Classrooms
- Taking Time to Help and Heal: Child Development Through a New Lens
- An Introduction to Trauma’s Influence on the Brain, Body, and Behavior
Additional Resource
