Mitigating the Impacts of Adverse Childhood Experiences

Abstract

Peace4Kids, a community-based non-profit, developed their trauma-informed, strengths-based approach over two decades of applied practice with children in foster care. This approach consists of a daily mindfulness practice and a communication tool to facilitate a positive approach to creating safe spaces for all children who are coping with adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). The consistent use of these tools together builds awareness of the influence that mental models have on interactions between adult caregivers and children, increases empathy in those moments, and gives children agency. With a focus on the mindfulness of adult caregivers, rather than on changing the behavior of children, this approach can be integrated into any context, culture, curriculum, or teaching philosophy. The purpose of this chapter is to share these practices for use with all children who were adversely impacted by the experience of the COVID-19 pandemic during their development.