We’ve all heard the saying, “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger,” but when it comes to childhood, the story is a bit more complex. Our early years are like a patchwork quilt, stitched together from all the experiences—both good and bad—that shape who we are. For a long time, researchers have focused on what happens when kids go through tough times. They’ve tracked something called ACEs, or Adverse Childhood Experiences, which are those big, heavy things like trauma, neglect, or family instability that can leave lasting scars. But here’s the twist: while we’ve been busy measuring how these difficult experiences impact us as adults, new research is showing that positive experiences—what scientists are calling Positive Childhood Experiences, or PCEs—can be just as powerful in shaping who we become. It’s like discovering that while adversity can leave its mark, love, support, and connection have the incredible power to heal and build resilience. So, let’s dive into how these experiences—both the tough ones and the uplifting ones—come together to influence our mental health and well-being throughout life.
In 2019, a team of researchers at Johns Hopkins University shed new light on a question that’s puzzled many: why do some people who face tough childhoods grow up to be resilient, thriving adults? This large-scale study identified seven Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs)—the kinds of experiences that can act as a protective shield against the effects of trauma. They found that these key experiences are strongly linked to better mental health and stronger social connections in adulthood.
We’ve long known about ACEs, those difficult or traumatic events that can predict which kids might face challenges as they grow up. Most of us who work with or care for children—whether as counselors, teachers, or parents—are familiar with the idea that the more ACEs a child has, the more likely they are to struggle later on. But here’s the thing: even with high ACE scores, some kids manage to beat the odds. They grow up to be emotionally healthy, well-adjusted adults. So, what’s their secret? What helps these kids not just survive, but thrive despite the hardships they’ve faced? The answer seems to lie in those seven Positive Childhood Experiences. According to the Johns Hopkins study, these experiences are statistically linked to good mental health in adults, even for those who went through tough times as kids.
Understanding these factors gives us insight into how we can better support children, fostering resilience that carries them through to adulthood. Before researchers started measuring ACEs and connecting the dots between high ACE scores and outcomes like lower high school graduation rates, increased mental health diagnoses, and higher rates of incarceration, we knew one thing for sure: we need to protect kids from trauma. That’s why there’s been such a huge focus on reducing adverse childhood experiences. But here’s what’s really interesting—research now shows that positive childhood experiences can promote lifelong health, even for kids who’ve faced multiple challenges.
This new direction in research asks a critical question: How can we better support kids who’ve been through one or more traumatic events? And what about those who haven’t faced trauma yet but might in the future? Could PCEs be the key to helping kids build resilience so they can grow into healthier, stronger adults?
The study suggests that when kids experience a lot of these positive moments, they learn to trust in the support of their social connections. That sense of social connectedness is crucial for mental health later in life. Adults who say they have strong emotional and social support—whether it’s from family, partners, or close friends—are more likely to have had a high number of PCEs during childhood. And the connection between PCEs and good mental health isn’t just a coincidence. It’s dose-responsive, meaning the more PCEs a child experiences, the better their mental health tends to be as an adult.
7 Positive Childhood Experiences
1. The Ability to Talk with Family About Feelings
Being able to share thoughts and feelings openly within the family is huge. It’s about creating a space where emotions aren’t just acknowledged but welcomed. Whether it’s a parent checking in or sharing their own feelings in an age-appropriate way, this dialogue helps kids develop emotional intelligence. They learn to identify and express what they’re feeling, which is a skill that serves them well throughout life.
2. Feeling That Family Is Supportive in Difficult Times
When things get tough, knowing that your family has your back is incredibly powerful. It doesn’t take much—just a moment of presence, a few comforting words, or simply being there with your child can make all the difference. This kind of support teaches kids that they’re not alone, that they matter, and that someone is always in their corner.
3. Enjoyment in Participating in Community Traditions
Traditions are more than just rituals; they’re anchors that connect us to something bigger. Whether it’s a holiday celebration, a family outing, or a local event, these moments create a sense of belonging and community. For kids, these traditions build a rhythm in their lives that fosters connection and creates positive, lasting memories.
4. Feeling of Belonging in High School
High school can be a rollercoaster, but finding a sense of belonging can make all the difference. This could come from joining clubs, participating in extracurricular activities, or just finding a group of friends who share similar interests. Positive relationships and connections are key to helping teens feel like they’re part of something.
5. Feeling Supported by Friends
Just as family support is crucial, so is the support of friends. Kids look to their parents as models for what healthy, supportive relationships should look like. When they see these positive interactions, they’re more likely to seek out and maintain similar friendships, which are essential for their social and emotional development.
6. Having at Least Two Non-Parent Adults Who Genuinely Care
It’s important for kids to have trusted adults outside their immediate family—teachers, coaches, mentors, or even a friend’s parent. These are the people who can offer guidance, provide support, and be a positive influence. Having these connections gives kids another layer of security and helps them develop a broader support network.
7. Feeling Safe and Protected by an Adult at Home
Safety isn’t just about being protected from physical harm; it’s also about feeling emotionally secure. When kids know their parents are there to keep them safe and meet their needs, it frees them up to focus on growing, learning, and exploring the world around them. This sense of safety is foundational for healthy development.
In the end, it’s clear that while our childhoods are filled with a mix of experiences—some good, some not so much—the positive ones can be a powerful counterbalance to the challenges. By fostering these Positive Childhood Experiences, we’re not just helping kids navigate the here and now; we’re helping them build a foundation for a healthier, more resilient future. And that’s a legacy worth investing in.