Purpose: This study examines parental perceptions of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and identifies key educational components for effective prevention programs. Given the long-term impact of ACEs on child development and well-being, understanding parental perspectives is essential for designing targeted interventions. By identifying gaps in parental awareness, this study provides a foundation for structured, evidence-based interventions aimed at reducing ACEs and promoting child well-being. Methods: A qualitative content analysis was conducted using the data obtained from semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 12 mothers of preschool-aged children between January 3, 2022, and January 11, 2022. Participants were recruited through purposive sampling to ensure diversity in parenting backgrounds and exposure to ACE-related risk factors. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematically analyzed until data saturation was reached, ensuring the identification of consistent patterns in parental perspectives and educational needs. Results: Five key themes emerged from the analysis. First, “Memories and emotions of ACEs” highlighted how past experiences of coercive parenting, neglect, and emotional detachment influenced current parenting practices, with many parents expressing a desire to break negative cycles. Second, “Long-term impacts of ACEs” revealed persistent psychological and emotional effects, including anxiety, low self-esteem, difficulties in emotional regulation, and struggles in forming secure attachments. Third, “Parent education needs for preventing ACEs” emphasized the need for structured training programs focusing on emotional regulation, stress management, positive discipline strategies, and effective communication skills to support healthy parent-child relationships. Fourth, “Social factors and family environment improvement” identified financial instability, limited access to community support, and social stigma as significant barriers to creating a safe and nurturing home environment. Finally, “Proposals for promoting healthy child development” included recommendations for increasing public awareness of ACEs, expanding accessible parenting education, and developing community-based initiatives to enhance family resilience and reduce ACE risk factors. Conclusion: The findings underscore the importance of comprehensive parent education programs that emphasize non-violent discipline, empathetic communication, and parental stress management. Additionally, integrating social support systems, advocating for public policies that strengthen family well-being, and raising awareness of ACEs can enhance preventive efforts. Future research should assess the effectiveness of such programs across diverse socio-economic and cultural backgrounds to develop sustainable ACE prevention strategies. Expanding access to evidence-based parenting programs and incorporating them into public health initiatives will be the key to ensuring long-term success, reducing ACE prevalence, and promoting healthier childhood environments.

Objectives: This systematic review sought to examine existing studies addressing the relationship between Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and children’s sleep quality. Methods: An exhaustive literature search was performed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Records were identified through PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and Ovid. Results: Fourteen studies were reviewed showing moderate evidence supporting the relationship between ACEs and sleep problems. Child sexual abuse was the most frequently reported form of maltreatment and was significantly linked to sleep problems. Common sleep problems included difficulty falling asleep, nocturnal awakening, nightmares, daytime sleepiness, and poor quality of sleep. Discussion: Occupational therapy practitioners are encouraged to include evaluation and interventions for sleep disturbances in children who have known or suspected traumatic experiences. More specific studies are needed to further understand differences between ages and sexes and whether type of abuse makes a difference in this relationship.