Childhood Trauma

 

 

Each year teachers see more and more students coming to school impacted by trauma. Studies show that trauma can be caused by not only a catastrophic event but from chronic instability from houselessness, exposure to domestic violence, abuse or neglect. Children who experience trauma can have trouble with self regulation and experience frequent stress responses expressed by overreacting or being unresponsive. They can struggle with reasoning and problem solving. They can also have trouble forming attachments and relationships and struggle with self esteem. All of these skills come into play at school and in the classroom.

Children impacted by trauma need consistency, routine, compassion and calm, supportive adults that can help them navigate challenging situations and behavior.

As an educator, I am charged with the learning, growth and well being of all the students in my classroom. It can be difficult to support children who express challenging behaviors when their behavior can negatively impact others. All children deserve to feel safe and supported. Using tools such as mindfulness, restorative justice and community building are some of the ways to demonstrate and engage in practices that teach children how to navigate very real life issues and complex emotions. There are many issues that are beyond my scope as an educator to treat or solve, but I can strive to create a classroom community that values each student, no matter their struggles. I can work with students to speak honestly about conflict and hurts and work to repair relationships. I can encourage students to learn from mistakes and give each other the opportunity to learn and grow from those mistakes. I try to keep in mind that sometimes the students that are the most challenging, need these opportunities the most.

 

If you would like to read more about the impacts of childhood trauma and ways to help impacted children, I have linked a few articles.

https://childmind.org/article/how-trauma-affects-kids-school/

https://www.nctsn.org/what-is-child-trauma/trauma-types/complex-trauma/effects

https://www.kidsmatter.edu.au/mental-health-matters/trauma/managing-trauma-and-ways-recover