Young children need much support as they grow up and learn about the evolving world that seems so big when we’re small. We know that many factors can negatively affect our child’s mental health and well-being. Still, many don’t always consider the impression that unstable and unhealthy housing can create on a child. When your kids have lived in a place with unpredictability and high tension, they may experience issues later in life.
Today, we will discuss how housing can create adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and how adults can help kids recover with a safe and welcoming home environment.
How Housing Is Linked to ACEs
According to the National HealthCare for the Homeless Council, children living in poverty are five times more likely to carry high ACE scores and grow up with developmental challenges and poor mental health. There’s also a startling connection between living in poverty and experiencing instances of physical and mental abuse. This is often the case because the caregivers living in the home are more likely to be living with their own substance abuse disorders or untreated mental health illnesses.
There’s also a chance that families that live in poverty are also homeless. The same study explains that 12.3% of caregivers who are homeless also struggle with substance abuse disorders. If they do, the substance can become the priority instead of their children. Also, homeless kids can be more likely to experience physical health issues. They can include low birth weight and respiratory problems.
This issue has become more apparent over the last few years as the COVID-19 pandemic has caused many families to face unstable housing. Last year, many caregivers had trouble paying rent because they either fell ill or had to deal with the instability of the job market. This was an issue that greatly affected minority groups. Once financial stability is lost, it can be difficult for a family to get back to a good place. Other forms of housing instability can include overcrowding with too many people living in a home, and frequent moving, which can prevent the child from getting their bearings and forming positive relationships with friends and classmates.
Overall, if children are living in an unstable housing situation, and their environment lacks emotional stability, it can affect their chances of having a happy and successful life as they age. If you’re adopting a child who has experienced instability and adverse childhood experiences, it’s important that you create a safe and secure environment so they can grow up with the hope of a positive future.
Keep The Home Clean And Uncluttered
When it comes to making a safe home, also focus on the other concerns we don’t typically think of every day, such as reducing unnecessary clutter. When a home is unorganized and full of stuff, it can be very disorienting. The clutter may make us feel like our lives are also out of control, which is the same for kids and adults.
Plus, a mess with unsealed food and debris spread around, especially in the kitchen, can attract rodents to your home. That’s bad because pests can bring disease into the house, leading to asthma and allergy issues for you and the kids. Since physical illness is a form of adverse childhood experience, you must do everything possible to keep the kids safe.
In addition to removing unnecessary clutter, it’s also crucial that parents keep up on daily and weekly cores, especially those that revolve around cleaning surfaces and washing clothes. If towels, dish rags, pillowcases, and other commonly used items aren't cleaned, and they’re used by multiple people, it can result in sickness, up to and including pink eye (conjunctivitis). Not only is it unsightly, but conjunctivitis can also cause discomfort. It can make you want to rub your eye, which can cause other, more serious ailments, including corneal inflammation. Although accidents can happen, if you’re trying to create a happy and productive home environment, then ensuring cleanliness and safety is key.
Set Good Examples
You must be a positive role model for the youngsters in your home. You should set good examples whenever possible because you will be amazed at how often children mimic what you do. Be aware of your words and avoid cursing and talking badly of others. Avoid excessive drinking, smoking, and other bad habits that are associated with substance abuse.
You should also always remain calm under pressure. Life can be tough, but you must handle every issue tactfully and resist the urge to yell. Children should grow up in an environment where they know it’s okay to make mistakes without feeling ashamed or scared of the possible repercussions. Instead of yelling, speak to your child quietly. Explain what they did wrong and give relatable tips for how they can do right next time. Doing this will ensure your kids hear your words and learn from their mistakes.
Make sure to show affection whenever possible so your kids know they’re loved and appreciated.
- Give hugs, cuddle, and talk to them, especially when they’re upset;
- Ask them questions about how they feel;
- Actively listen to their concerns so you can make the proper adjustments;
Warm and positive communication is essential when maintaining a happy household, and by seeing it in action, the kids will learn how to properly speak to others as they get older.
Conclusion
As you can see, it’s no wonder why so many children who have found success in life also had a great bond with their families. A family unit is essential for the well-being of the kids and the parents, so make that a priority. If you get the chance to improve a child’s life, take it.
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