Oak Harbor Youth Coalition hopes to facilitate some “lightbulb moments” on childhood trauma during upcoming training sessions.

“Sometimes a child will suddenly exhibit some kind of uncooperative behavior that seems random to us,” said Tara Hizon, community coalition coordinator. “Frequently, it’s been triggered by something that isn’t obvious.”

Starting at 10 a.m. Saturday (3/9) at the Oak Harbor Senior Center, the coalition will host a free introduction to adverse childhood experiences, called ACES. Joe Neigel from the Monroe Community Coalition will give an overview what adverse experiences can look like and how they affect children’s development. That session will last about three hours.

“The ACES introduction, I think is essential information for everyone,” Hizon said.

There are links between certain types of trauma and the adult onset of mental illness, violence, becoming a victim of violence as well as increased risk of heart disease and cancer.

“The science is really interesting and kind of scary,” Hizon said.

On Thursday, March 28 at the Oak Harbor School District office, a second, free, all-day workshop on responding to complex trauma will be held. Hizon said this more in-depth training session will benefit those who work with children, including parents, foster parents, health care providers and teachers.

Maurene Stanton, from North-west Educational Service District No. 189, leads the second workshop.

Hizon said the growing body of research on childhood trauma is changing how education and health care is delivered.

“People are starting to look at the big picture,” she said.

For more information and to register email Tara Hizon at t.hizon@co.island.wa.us

To read the full article written by Laura Guido, click HERE