Give your child the best start in life
Learn about toxic stress response
Watch our video series to better understand how toxic stress affects kids.
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Don't Cry | First 5 California
We can’t always change the past, but we can help our kids grow into happy and healthy teens and adults. When a child goes through trauma, your support helps stop toxic stress from affecting their health. Watch how one father changed the story to help his son heal and thrive.
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Finding Your Village: A Guide to California’s Family Resource Centers (FRCs)Parenting is one of the most rewarding jobs in the world, but it’s also one of the hardest. You don’t have to figure everything out on your own. In California, there’s a great resource for families: Family Resource Centers (FRCs).
Think of an FRC as your neighborhood’s one-stop shop for help, hope, and community. Whether you need a bag of groceries, a parenting class, or just a place where your toddler can play while you talk to another adult, your local FRC is there for you.
Talking With Their Hands: How Using Signs Can Lower Toddler StressYour toddler is pointing at the counter, crying, and turning red. You offer a cracker, and they scream. You offer water, and they throw their head back. It’s heartbreaking for you and exhausting for them. All parents have been in this situation.
The truth is, your toddler’s brain is often steps ahead of their mouth. They know exactly what they need, but they don't have the words to say it yet. This is called the “Communication Gap,” and it is one of the biggest causes of toddler stress. By adding just a few simple hand movements to your day, you can help your toddler feel heard and understood.
The Power of Calm: How Your Baby Reads Your EnergyWhen you're rushing through a busy day, it's easy to move on autopilot without realizing how much your little one is picking up on your energy. Even before they can talk, babies are like little emotional sponges. They are incredibly good at reading the room by watching your every move.
While it’s impossible to be stress-free all the time, understanding how your baby senses your feelings can help you build a stronger, calmer bond. Let’s look at how your baby reads your cues and what you can do to help you both find your calm.
What is Toxic Stress?
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What is self-care?
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Do stressful life situations really matter to a baby or young child?
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