Our Series of Simple Everyday Actions Can Help Parents and Caregivers
By Lonna Davis
Vice President, Children and Youth
April 29, 2026
A 2024 report found that three out of four high school students have experienced one or more traumatic events known as adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), which can impact a young person’s long-term health and well-being.
But data also show that parents and caregivers play a big role in mitigating ACEs when they help their kids feel safe and loved.
We produced a series of simple everyday actions called “Everyday Magic: 7 Ways Parents & Caregivers Can Help Children Affected by Family Violence,” for families who have experienced violence. But the same recommendations ring true for any parent or caregiver wanting to help their kids feel safe and loved.
Even in a chaotic and scary world, there are simple actions a parent can take to nurture and care for their children so they can grow and thrive.
Resources to Help Parents and Caregivers
“Everyday Magic” highlights the specific things a parent or caregiver can do or say at any stage in their child’s development to connect with their child. It’s a reminder that no matter the situation, parents can show up for their kids with the goodness and magic that’s already inside of them and their relationships.
There are powerful, daily opportunities for parents to care for their children at every stage, especially for families who have been impacted by violence.
Everyday Magic for Your Child
Below is a sampling of what each resource contains.
For parents of children or youth ages:
- 0-2, create moments of calm and safety with music, soft voices, and holding your child. Create a routine and practice strategies that help you feel calm.
- 3-5, spend time with your toddler by playing, singing, dancing, reading, or making art together. Listen to your child and comfort them when they are scared or upset.
- 6-9, reassure your child, make your home as calm as possible, and spend time with your child every day. Try to understand how they might handle stress and give them the space they need.
- 10-12, support their healthy friendships, build their self-esteem, and be patient. Try to follow a routine to help them feel safe and show them love.
- 13-18, be patient, show interest in your teen, and allow them time to express their feelings. Set clear expectations and help them find any support they will feel comfortable with and respond to.
Everyday Magic for Yourself
It’s also important to remember that parents and caregivers need to care for themselves, too. Each resource highlights ways to do that:
- Take care of yourself so you can be there for your child. Whenever possible, get enough sleep, eat well, exercise, and go to the doctor regularly.
- Focus on your healing. Family violence can affect parenting in ways that aren’t always obvious. Reach out for help. Taking action toward healing will make it easier for your child to do the same.
- Spend time with people who support you. Identify family and friends you can be real with.
- Take time to do things that you enjoy. Caring for children is exhausting. Take time for yourself to do something that makes you happy.
- Identify at least one support. If you start to have a hard time or things get worse, reach out to a trusted friend, your doctor, or a hotline like the National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) | TTY 1-800-787-3224 or Text “START” to 88788.
It’s hard being a parent. It’s even harder if your family has experienced violence. But everyday magic of connection, calm, and love can still happen.
