Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration – 2012
Information for service providers, advocates, and practitioners on supporting young children in families affected by mental health, substance abuse, and trauma issues. Discusses brain development in children ages 0-5 and describes how exposure to adverse experiences can negatively impact brain development. Explains the importance of building resilience in young children and outlines threats to resilience. These include maternal stress and substance abuse in pregnancy and different levels of stress experienced by infants and toddlers (including toxic stress caused by caregiver substance abuse). Presents action steps for communities to support at-risk young children and their families. Outlines the five protective factors and discusses how communities can promote them. Presents a strategic planning framework communities can use to develop and implement effective support programs. Includes resources for further information.