WHAT PARENTS DO DURING THE FIRST FIVE YEARS, MATTERS!
It might be difficult to imagine that the things you do during the first 5 years of your child’s life will stay with them through the rest of their days. 0-5 child development is the single most crucial time for laying the foundation for healthy physical, neural, emotional, and social development. The effects of mistreating a child during this period have come to light recently with a study conducted by the CDC.
Check out an Ace Infographic here.
During the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) study researches interviewed 17,000 HMO members about abusive, neglectful, and traumatic experiences they had very early in life. They then looked at their health histories and realized that most of these people had health issues ranging from chronic diseases such as autoimmune disease and migraines. They also displayed reproductive malfunctions such as fetal death and risky behaviors. Of course a majority also had mental health issues, problems relating to others socially, and even problems functioning in society altogether.
The things that you do during the first 5 years of your child’s life will impact them long after they have grown into adults, started families of their own, and even after they have attended your funeral. Every child has the right to have a healthy and happy start in life. If you ever feel overwhelmed with the pressures of parenthood, step away. Talk to somebody if you need to. Don’t lash out and scar your child for life, because some scars never heal.
If you need help and you aren’t sure where to turn, contact us.