Early childhood trauma or adverse events in the absence of natural supports or a nurturing caregiver may interrupt and negatively impact brain development and affect behavior and long-term emotional and mental health. Early experiences in life that are positive and negative shape the architecture of the brain. When a an infant or young child is exposed to chronic stress or traumatic events, the brain's emotional center, the amygdala, reacts. In a state of constant fight, flight or freeze, brain development compromised and the risk of developing mental, social and behavioral disorders rises significantly.
What can we do at the community level to help build a system of care that is accessible and meaningful to help improve the lives of children and youth at risk of exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)? As part of the larger state action plan, Norwescap and local communities aim to partner with YOU to promote and practice trauma-informed care in service provision and to build supportive and sustainable systems for children and families.
Visit the NJ Department of Children and Families, Office of Resilience HERE and read the NJ Statewide Action Plan!
More information and training to come! Stay tuned!
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