In the child welfare field, adopting a protective factors approach is crucial for preventing child abuse and neglect, as it focuses on strengthening families and building resilience. By using evidence-based strategies, practitioners can better support families at risk, ensuring they have the resources and social connections necessary to provide safe, nurturing environments. Fostering social and emotional competencies across individuals, families, and communities helps mitigate the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and promotes positive development. Ultimately, these strategies work to create equitable environments where children can thrive mentally, emotionally, and physically, leading to healthier outcomes in adulthood.