Insights for Impact

Research shows that Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), including child abuse and neglect, are preventable public health issues. We also know the importance of Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs), like having family to talk to, feeling safe and protected by an adult in the home, and community connections, which can buffer the effects of ACEs and support a child’s capacity to thrive.

Prevent Child Abuse America is supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to build capacity of primary prevention networks, including the nationwide Prevent Child Abuse State Chapters and Healthy Families America sites and the Essentials for Childhood self-supported states, in translating insights for impact for the promotion of improved health outcomes and the reduction of ACEs. This includes technical assistance, capacity-building support, and resource development to strengthen the ability of the primary prevention network in translating stories, insights, and evidence to inform action towards the promotion of PCEs and the prevention of ACEs. Together, we can create a world where all children and families are living a purposeful and happy life with hope for the future.

What are Insights for Impact?

Insights for Impact is a strategic approach that prioritizes using data, evidence, and personal experiences to drive meaningful, measurable change for families and communities, including programs, policies, and investments. At its core, it means making informed decisions grounded in what we know works, rather than relying on assumptions or one-size-fits-all solutions.

To achieve the greatest impact, it’s important to gather insights through a variety of lenses. This includes analyzing data, studying research and evaluations, and engaging directly with families and parents to understand their experiences and needs. The insights can be used to highlight successful practices, identify innovative interventions, and promote effective policy solutions.

Making change based on what we know works includes applying these insights to drive decisions. Applying Insights for Impact also includes understanding which policies have been effective in real-world settings, understanding why they work, and expanding or adapting policies. Ultimately, Insights for Impact is about doing more of what works—and doing it better—so that families receive the support they need to thrive.

Essentials for Childhood Framework

School-based Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Laws

Insights for Impact Summit

Zooming Out Speaker Series: Policy as a Prevention Strategy

How Change Happens

Government Affairs Initiative 2025 Highlights

Study of Economic Support Policies

What is Prevention: Policy Options to Strengthen Families and Prevent Child Abuse and Neglect

Paid Family and Medical Leave is Important to All Families

The team will continue to update this page as the project progresses—stay tuned for more highlights.

This project and webpage are supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award (NU38PW000030). The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by CDC/HHS, or the U.S. Government.