The Center for Collaborative Study of Trauma, Health Equity, and Neurobiology
Positive Childhood Experiences
Positive Childhood Experiences Protect Us
Positive childhood experiences (PCEs) - such as the presence of safe, stable, nurturing relationships and environments - support development of a flexible stress response system and
brain-body regulation - increasing the likelihood of health and well-being across the lifespan.
Early life PCEs are especially important to protect us by preventing and mitigating the impact of trauma.
PCEs may even be more important influencers of health than ACEs.
Some examples of PCEs are:
o Caregiver attunement and secure attachment
o Positive relationships with friends, teachers and community members
o Neighborhood safety
o Equitable access to resources for basic needs.
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