ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Adverse childhood experiences among Hispanic and Latino Americans

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are like bad things that happen to kids when they are young. It can be anything that makes a child feel scared, unsafe or unhappy, like abuse, neglect or household issues. For example, if a parent or guardian hits or yells at a child often or if they feel left out or ignored, that can be an ACE.

Studies have shown that ACEs can lead to a lot of problems as kids grow up, like difficulties in school, substance abuse, and mental health problems when they get older. They can even affect their physical health, like heart disease or stroke, when they are adults.

Now, let’s talk about Hispanic and Latino Americans. These are people who have family backgrounds from parts of the world where Spanish is often spoken, like Mexico, Central or South America or Puerto Rico.

Studies show that Hispanic and Latino children are more likely to experience ACEs than other groups in the United States. This can be for a lot of reasons, like poverty, immigration struggles or discrimination based on the way they look or speak.

But there is hope! Experts say that if kids who experience ACEs get help and support early on, they can still lead healthy and happy lives. There are many resources available to help families cope and overcome the effects of ACEs, like counseling, therapy, and community support programs.

In short, ACEs are bad things that happen to kids, and Hispanic and Latino children are more likely to experience them. But with support and resources, they can still lead great lives.