Trauma affects everyone.
It’s impacting our families
and communities right now.
What is trauma?
Trauma is broader and more common than people realize. It is an emotional response to a terrible event, whether it’s abuse, neglect, a severe accident, a natural disaster or other intense occurrence.
At FamilyForward, we focus on developmental trauma. This is trauma that takes place early in a child’s life, and the resulting stress response disrupts the development of the brain. We are equipped to consider each child’s unique biological and genetic traits, relational experiences and personality characteristics to provide the care they need.
Knowing the truth about developmental trauma and abuse is part of the battle to address their effects in our communities.
Misconception: Most children don’t experience trauma.
Reality: More than two thirds of children reported experiencing at least one traumatic event by age 16.
Source: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Misconception: Childhood abuse and neglect are a thing of the past.
Reality: At least 1 in 7 children have experienced abuse and/or neglect in the past year, and this is likely an underestimate.
Source: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Misconception: Childhood abuse doesn’t impact our community.
Reality: During the fiscal year 2021, 16,984 children in the St. Louis area were reported to the Missouri Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline.
Misconception: Abuse ends after childhood.
Reality: 40% of child abuse victims also report experiencing domestic violence as adults.
Learn more about how our unique approach
and programs address developmental trauma:
Should I Expect My 6-Year-Old to Do Their Own Laundry?
When parenting school-aged children, we tend to think about if we are preparing them for independence in adulthood. Hear from Ashley Wagner, Director of Occupational Therapy at FamilyForward on how she has gauged a child’s readiness, interest, and capability to determine appropriate developmental expectations.
What Can I Expect from My Child?
Child development is tricky. Each milestone—from learning to walk to mastering social skills—requires patience, practice, and sometimes setbacks. It’s crucial to respect each child’s unique journey, providing support and guidance tailored to their individual needs without pushing beyond their current capabilities to foster healthy development.
Video: Breaking the Cycle of Trauma
Today, one in seven children will become a victim of abuse or neglect, perpetuating a cycle of intergenerational harm. Discover how FamilyForward is actively working to break this cycle and support vulnerable children and families in St. Louis.
You’ve seen the numbers. You’ve seen what we can do to support struggling families. Take the next step and become an advocate for children and families in our communities.