The Truth of the Prevalence of Childhood Toxic Stress and Trauma:  

Exploring the Role of Pre- and Perinatal Informed Educators Working with Adverse Childhood Experiences

with Donna Seegers Abler OTR/L, PPNE '19

The Adverse Childhood Experiences Study (1998) is a landmark study that reveals the truth about the prevalence of childhood toxic stress and trauma, its impact on children’s health, and how it correlates to development and adult diseases. This presentation supports pre- and perinatal educators in gaining an understanding of the study, recognizing the scope of childhood toxic stress and trauma, identifying the three major findings of the study, and exploring their role in working with infants and children with toxic stress and trauma.   

Learning Objectives:

—Identifies the three major findings from the study

—Identifies the indicators the study lists and their health correlates

—Identifies the mind-shift between assessed problems verses childhood coping strategies as solutions to a deeper trauma

—Imparts awareness of the principles of trauma informed care

—Explores 3 strategies to integrate into practice that will support this population of children

Donna Seegers Abler, OTR/L and BS in occupational therapy (1985) graduated in June 2019 from APPPAH's PPNE Program. She has worked in a variety of pediatric settings and situations, including public and private schools, early intervention, private practice, Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, the NICU, and practices at Therapy Group of Tucson. This presentation developed out of one of her program submissions.

References:

1. https://acestoohigh.com
2. https://www.traumainformedcare.chcs.org/
3. Herz A. 2019. Shifting Focus from Trauma to Compassion. Blogpost. https://acestoohigh.com
4. Felitti VJ, et all. Relationship of childhood abuse and household dysfunction to many of the leading causes of death in adults: The Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Study. American Journal of Preventative Medicine 1998; 14: 245-258. http://www.cdc.gov/Other/disclaimer.html
5. Mate G. The Importance of Attachment; Wholeness and Health or Disease, Depression, Addiction, ADD and Violence. A PPN video.