By: Claire Zhou

In today’s world, there is significant concern regarding how to address ACEs, which stands for adverse childhood experiences, that can negatively impact a child’s growth and life. Research has demonstrated their potential to affect children’s mental and physical well-being.

However, recent studies focusing on PCEs, or positive childhood experiences, have provided a more balanced understanding of children’s development, in collaboration with parental support.

In 2019, a study on PCEs involved 6,188 adults who were asked the following seven questions about their childhoods:

1. Were they able to communicate their feelings with their families?

2. Did they feel supported by their families during challenging times?

3. Did they find enjoyment in participating in community traditions?

4. Did they experience a sense of belonging in high school?

5. Were they supported by their friends?

6. Did at least two non-parental adults show an interest in them?

7. Did they feel safe and protected by an adult at home?

The study found that adults who answered affirmatively to six or seven of these questions had a 72% decrease in the likelihood of experiencing depression or mental health problems.

Parents do not necessarily need to create elaborate or extraordinary moments to connect with their children. Instead, they should allow these connections to naturally arise and engage in meaningful interactions during small, everyday moments.

It is important to utilize the various moments in life to nurture your child and create an environment where they feel comfortable discussing their emotions and challenges.