HOPE Framework Overview

What HOPE is

HOPE is a strengths-based, flexible framework that helps people, organizations, and communities promote equitable access to key types of Positive Childhood Experiences.

• It complements attention to adversity by making positive experiences visible and actionable.
• It can inform one-to-one interactions, organizational practice, and community-wide change.
• It should be culturally responsive and grounded in what children, families, and communities identify as meaningful.

The Four Building Blocks

• Relationships: safe and supportive relationships within the family and with other children and adults.
• Environment: safe, equitable, and stable environments where children can live, learn, and play.
• Engagement: opportunities for social and civic engagement that develop belonging and connectedness.
• Emotional Growth: opportunities for emotional growth where children feel supported through difficult events and emotions.

A useful next question

After noticing adversity or risk, ask what relationships, environments, participation, and emotional-growth opportunities can be protected or expanded.