Protective factors are family characteristics that help keep families strong and
children safe, no matter what challenges they may encounter. All families go through
times when they need more support, and times when they need less. Learning about the
“5 Protective Factors” will help families identify their strengths and build up the
protective factors in their own lives so that support is there when they need it most.
1.Parental Resilience
Resilience is the ability to recover from difficult life experiences. Not only that, but resilience also includes one’s ability to be strengthened by and even transformed by those experiences. Resilience is not about how many bad things you experience, but rather how you respond to them.
How to become a resilient parent or caregiver:
- Model self-care by prioritizing sleep for yourself and your children
- Ask for help when you need it
- Laugh and play with your kids
- Keep a journal to write down all of your thoughts
- Enjoy music, exercise or other activities that support your mental and physical health
2.Social Connections
Strong support from friends, family and the community helps parents and caregivers feel secure, confident and empowered. Social support is one of the biggest influencing factors for preventing child abuse and neglect in Colorado. As a parent or caregiver, remember to ask for help, accept help and look for opportunities to help others when they need it. Focus on healthy and positive relationships where you feel respected and appreciated, and nurture those friendships.
How you can build social connections:
- Make some time to engage in community activities, hobbies or volunteering
- Call or text family members or friends to check on them, catch up, or schedule a playdate or luncheon
- Set aside some screen-free adult time to connect with others without distractions
- Consider working with a therapist if you find it challenging to connect with people or feel overwhelmed by social anxiety
3.Concrete Support in Times of Need
Families are more likely to thrive when they meet their basic needs like food, shelter, clothing and health care. When families encounter crises that they can’t overcome with their strengths and skills, it is fundamental that they have support from the community and organizations that have expertise in these challenges.
How to find concrete support in times of need:
- Ask your county department of human services for support
- Visit 211colorado.org to look for services or programs in your area
- Ask family members, friends and the community if they know of a service that can help you during a challenging time
4.Knowledge of Parenting and Child Development
There is no perfect parent, but knowing what to expect can make the job easier. Understanding child development and parenting strategies prepares parents for challenges. Embrace new skills and tips to help your child progress and thrive, and respond in positive ways when your child displays negative behaviors.
How to increase your knowledge of parenting and child development:
- Learn about activities that support healthy child development by reviewing the PLAYbook created by the Colorado Department of Early Childhood
- Turn to family members and friends who have children for tips and parenting practices
- Find parent groups where you can receive and share information
5.Social and Emotional Competence of Children
Social and emotional competence refers to children’s ability to form bonds and interact with others in a healthy and positive way. It also refers to children’s ability to self-regulate their emotions and their behaviors, communicate feelings and solve problems effectively.
How to help your child or youth be socially and emotionally competent:
- Lead by example: create healthy and positive relationships, place and respect boundaries, listen and be polite
- Create consistent routines that help children and youth understand what to expect and what is expected of them
- Offer warmth and acceptance when discussing emotions with your child or youth
