In Nadine Harris Burke's Ted Talk 'How Childhood Trauma Affects Health Across a Lifetime' She provides a detailed account of an exposure that is the leading cause of death for 7 out of 10 deaths in the USA- ACES, adverse childhood experiences. The research is phenomenal and when you listen to her Ted Talk be sure to have a seat close to the ground as you're likely to be knocked from it!
ACEs, or Adverse Childhood Experiences, are a framework used to understand and assess the long-term impact of traumatic events that occur during childhood. These experiences can have profound effects on a person's physical and mental health throughout their life.
When children are exposed to ACEs, their bodies and brains adapt to cope with the stressors. However, when this stress response is constantly activated due to chronic adversity, it can become "toxic." This can affect the way the brain develops, impacting areas related to emotional regulation, learning, and behaviour. It can also have long-term consequences on physical health, increasing the risk of chronic diseases.
For a child suffering from Toxic stress, just leaving their bedroom at the start of the day can feel like stepping out onto a busy eight lane motorway at rush hour. Just getting through the day can be exhausting and is often filled with unattainable expectations and uncontrollable outbursts.
In these circumstances finding some type of affective respite is essential, and that's where Nature Based Education can help.
Nature can play a significant role in helping children cope with toxic stress. The natural environment can serve as a source of support for children facing such stress. Here are some ways in which nature can be a positive response to toxic stress in children:
1. Stress Reduction: Spending time in natural settings, such as parks, forests, or green spaces, has been shown to reduce stress levels in both children and adults. Nature promotes relaxation and reduces the production of stress hormones.
2. Physical Activity: Engaging in outdoor activities in natural environments promotes physical health. Regular exercise in natural settings can help children build physical resilience, boost their immune systems, and improve overall well-being.
3. Emotional Well-Being: Nature offers opportunities for emotional exploration and regulation. It provides a sense of wonder and awe that can be emotionally uplifting. Nature can also promote a sense of connectedness and well-being.
4. Social Interaction: Natural settings can be ideal places for children to interact with peers, parents, and caregivers. These social connections provide emotional support and help children build social skills.
5. Mindfulness and Resilience: Nature encourages mindfulness and being present in the moment. This can help children learn emotional regulation and build resilience to stress.
6. Sense of Safety: Natural environments often feel safe and non-threatening. This sense of safety can be a powerful response to toxic stress, helping children feel secure and relaxed.
7. Family Bonding: Outdoor activities in nature can provide opportunities for family bonding, which is vital for emotional support and resilience-building in children.
It's important to note that the effects of nature on mitigating toxic stress may vary from child to child. Some children may benefit more from these experiences than others. Nevertheless, incorporating nature into a child's life and providing them with opportunities to engage with the natural world can be a valuable and holistic response to toxic stress. Additionally, professional support and counseling are often necessary for children experiencing severe toxic stress to address and mitigate its effects.
Comments