Kindergarten readiness is not impacted by high number of adverse childhood experiences (ACE), according to a study involving 115 preschoolers attending a comprehensive school readiness summer program in Miami in 2017, 2018 and 2019, reports K-12 Dive. The children were enrolled by their parents or other caregivers due to concerns about disruptive behavior problems at home and in school.
The Summer Academy program has been adapted from the Summer Treatment Program for Pre-Kindergartners, which focuses on children entering kindergarten with behavioral, emotional and learning challenges. The seven-week program emphasizes school routines, positive behaviors and family engagement.
Researchers questioned caregivers and parents to determine the number of ACEs each child experienced during their lifetime. Nearly all children participants experienced poverty. Other examples of the 29 ACE types identified included neighborhood violence and housing instability.
About 94% of the children experienced at least one ACE, and 49% had four or more. Only 6% of children experienced no ACEs.
The study revealed that children with higher numbers of ACEs were likely to have a higher prevalence of internalizing and disruptive behaviors.
Here’s what surprised researchers: the number of ACEs had no connection with academic functioning, such as early math and reading skills.
An important takeaway: Educators and parents need to help young children and their families find strategies to cope with disruptive and internalizing behaviors. Provide safe spaces and model calming and mindfulness techniques. Teach children to identify their emotions, how to manage feelings, and ask for help when needed.
K-12 Dive
