On the Screening of Infants By Pediatricians For Toxic Stress: Recommended

Source: Using the DC-0 to 3 conference with Donna Westin

An awareness of the impact of  adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) in early childhood continues to grow. -gw

An infant’s early visits to the pediatrician now might consist of screening for “toxic stress” symptoms, according to recommendations being created by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

With growing awareness in the field of infant mental health, based on the deepening body of scientific evidence, experts agree that monitoring babies for healthy brain development will lead to better longer-term outcomes.

AAP's recommendations are similar to previous warnings to shield children from second hand cigarette smoke or too much video screen time. This time, AAP is looking at how stress can impact a baby’s development.

http://www.scpr.org/blogs/education/2013/06/06/13920/pediatricians-urged-to-screen-infants-and-toddlers/