Childhood is a time of joy, growth, and innocence. But for many people, the early years also contain adverse experiences that can have a deep and lasting impact. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are traumatic events or conditions that occur during childhood, such as abuse, neglect, violence, or household dysfunction. These experiences can leave deep emotional wounds that may affect a person well into adulthood. (to learn more about ACEs, check out this TED talk: Nadine Burke Harris: How childhood trauma affects health across a lifetime | TED Talk)

There is hope for healing! There are intentional ways to overcome the effects of ACEs through play. 

Surprised? Play is more than just a fun pass time for kids. Through the power of play, children and adults alike can find healing and resilience in adversity.

Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) include a range of experiences that can disrupt a child's sense of safety, security, and well-being. These experiences include abuse, neglect, witnessing domestic violence, and more. The effect of ACEs on a child's development can lead to physical, mental, and emotional health issues, such as increased risk of chronic diseases, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and difficulties building healthy relationships. 

The Impact of Trauma on Play

Play is essential to a child's development, providing opportunities for exploration, self-expression, learning to regulate emotions, and social interaction. However, trauma can negatively impact a child's ability to engage in healthy play. Children who have experienced ACEs may have difficulties with trust, imagination, and controlling their emotions and impulses, making it challenging to fully take part in play activities. 

The Healing Power of Play  

Engaging in play provides children with a safe and supportive environment to process their trauma, explore their emotions, and develop healthy ways to cope. 

1. Emotional Expression: Play allows children to express their emotions in a non-verbal and non-threatening way. Through various forms of play, such as drawing, storytelling, or role-playing, children can externalize and process their feelings, providing an outlet for pent-up emotions. 

2. Building Trust and Attachment: Play creates a trusting relationship between the child and the adult they play with. Through consistent and positive interactions, children learn to trust again, developing secure attachments and restoring their belief in safe and nurturing relationships. 

3. Skill Development: Play offers opportunities to develop essential life skills. Children can learn problem-solving, decision-making, empathy, and communication skills through play. These skills empower children to navigate challenging situations well. 

4. Resilience and Empowerment: Engaging in play and witnessing their ability to deal with challenging situations empowers children to build strength. By exploring new roles, overcoming obstacles, and experiencing success, children develop a sense of mastery over their experiences, boosting their self-esteem and confidence. 

Supporting Adult Healing

Play isn't just for kids! Adults who have experienced ACEs can also benefit from incorporating play into their healing journey. Engaging in creative activities, hobbies, sports, or even seeking professional therapy that includes play-based techniques can help adults process and heal from their past traumas. 

Adverse Childhood Experiences can have long-lasting effects on a person, impacting their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. But through the transformative power of play, children and adults can find healing, resilience, and growth.

Play gives children a safe and supportive environment to express their emotions, develop essential life skills, and rebuild trust and attachments. By recognizing the importance of play in healing trauma, we can work towards creating a society where every child (and adult) has the opportunity to thrive and overcome the challenges they face.