In this special 2-part episode we are collaborating with First 5 California’s- Stronger Starts campaign to educate families of young children on the harmful effects toxic stress and adverse childhood experiences (ACES). We are joined by Dr. Nadine Burke Harris, pediatrician and the Former Surgeon General of California and Jackie Thu-Huong Wong, the Executive Director of First 5 California.

We discuss what ACES and toxic stress are and how these experiences can change our physiology and put us at risk for negative health outcomes. We talk about all the ways caregivers can show up for kids and reduce their risk for toxic stress- from singing & play to self-care – we can all work together to ensure all kids get a strong start.

Additional Resources

Campaign Video

First 5 California - Stronger Starts Website

First 5 California Website

First 5 California- The Dragon Song

ACESaware.org

My Number Story

Dr. Burke-Harris TED Talk

HealthyChildren.org- Adverse Childhood Experiences

AAP.org- ACES and toxic stress