Adverse Childhood Experiences and Resilience Training and Resources
When children experience traumatic events (ACEs), it can have lasting effects on their mental health and wellbeing. Studies show that at least 67% of the population has at least one ACE. This page contains training opportunities and resources related to the ACE study, the brain science, and biological changes that happen when a child experiences trauma. But there’s hope: ACEs are not our destiny! Learn how to build individual and family resilience despite what may have happened to us in the past.
Register for the workshop & learn more
Documents
Resources and Links
Videos
Local Testimonials
Activities
The Brain Architecture Game (video is on the upper right of the page)
Host a documentary screening: Paper Tigers and Resilience
Chronicles a year in the life of Lincoln High School in the community of Walla Walla, Washington. The kids who come to Lincoln have a history of truancy, behavioral problems, and substance abuse. After Lincoln’s principal is exposed to research about the effects of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), he decides to radically change the school’s approach to discipline. With the aid of diary camera footage, the film follows six students. From getting into fights, grappling with traumatic events in their lives, and on the cusp of dropping out, they find healing, support, and academic promise at Lincoln High.
Great for anyone who works with kids or has teenagers. (Video is free for prime members.)
Websites
Centers for Disease Control (CDC) ACE Study
Aces Too High (a news resource)
ACES Connection, a community of practice social network
Community Resilience Initiative (A few Virginia CSBs offer their Community Resilience Initiative Course 1 Trauma Informed and Course 2 Trauma Supportive)
Resilience Research – What Works
Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University
National Child Traumatic Stress Network
National Council for Behavioral Health: Trauma Informed Care
LeBron James Family Foundation and The I Promise School
Family & Children’s Trust Fund of Virginia
Findings from the Philadelphia Urban ACE Survey (2013)opens PDF file
A Million Words or Less Letter- Letter from Parent to Teacher about Child.
Adapting Trauma-Informed Practices to a Virtual Environmentopens PDF file