Early childhood trauma generally refers to the traumatic experiences that occur to children aged 0-6. Because infants and young children's reactions may be different from older children's, and because they may not verbalize their reactions to threatening or dangerous events, many people assume that young age protects children from the impact of traumatic experiences. A growing body of research has established that young children may be affected by events that threaten their safety or the safety of their parents/caregivers, and their symptoms have been well documented. These traumas can result from intentional violence—such as child physical or sexual abuse or domestic violence—or the result of natural disasters, accidents, or war. Young children also may experience traumatic stress in response to painful medical procedures or the sudden loss of a parent/caregiver.

Childhood trauma can disrupt many aspects of the child's development and form a sense of self. Since these events often occur with a caregiver, they interfere with the child's ability to create a secure attachment. These signs are not limited to children. Often these same symptoms will appear in adulthood.