“Big Feelings, Little Bodies: Helping Children Heal from Toxic Stress” explores the profound impact of toxic stress on children’s development, examining how early traumatic experiences can affect brain architecture, physical health, and emotional well-being.

The tip sheet breaks down three types of stress responses (positive, tolerable, and toxic) and provides in-depth insights into how prolonged exposure to adverse experiences can impact children. It offers practical strategies for supporting children’s healing, emphasizing the importance of building trust, creating safety, and seeking professional help.

Uniquely, the guide also addresses caregiver well-being, providing seven evidence-based methods for completing the stress cycle and maintaining personal resilience. With a hopeful approach, the document underscores that healing is possible through consistent, compassionate support and understanding.

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Author: Wisconsin Family Connections Center
Additional Author: Coalition for Children, Youth & Families