Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are potentially traumatic events that occur in childhood (0-17 years). Examples of ACEs including experiencing violence, abuse, or neglect, witnessing violence in the home or community, and growing up in a household with instability. ACEs can impact life opportunities such as education and job potential and are associated with increased risk for a range of health challenges including alcohol and drug misuse, chronic diseases, infectious diseases, and mental health problems (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).

Considerations for Equitable Approaches: While all children are at risk of ACEs, inequalities linked to the historical, social, and economic environments in which some families live may place some children at greater risk of experiencing ACEs. Strategies to prevent ACEs include strengthening economic supports for families; promoting social norms that protect against violence and adversity; ensuring a strong start through investments in child care and other early childhood programs; teaching skills to help parents and youth manage challenges; connecting youth to caring adults and activities; and intervening to lessen immediate and long-term harms (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).