Trauma and Learning
< Connection Between Trauma and Mental HealthAdverse Childhood Experiences, (ACEs) a study of 17,000 middle-class Americans documented how the experiences in a person’s early childhood years can significantly impact their adult physical and mental health. Some of these experiences may include – families dealing with food insecurity, the death of a loved one, abuse and neglect, a natural disaster, and more. Unfortunately, these are all real things that occur in many children’s lives, and we can’t undo what has happened to them. These events can affect children’s learning and cause them to struggle academically. In addition, children who have experienced ACEs will bring their pain and fears into the classroom. However, by putting on a trauma-informed lens, educators can help all children feel safe and secure in their classroom and reduce the negative impact of traumatic experiences on learning.
Webinar
Books
- Fostering Resilient Learners: Strategies for Creating a Trauma-Sensitive Classroom by Kristin Souers and Pete Hall
- Trauma-Informed Social-Emotional Toolbox for Children & Adolescents: 116 Worksheets & Skill-Building Exercises to Support Safety, Connection & Empowerment by Lisa Weed Phifer and Laura Sibbald
- Trauma-Sensitive Schools for the Adolescent Years: Promoting Resiliency and Healing, Grades 6–12 by Susan E. Craig and Jim Sporleder
Links to Articles
- Trauma-Informed Teaching Strategies, ASCD
- Trauma-Informed Strategies to Use in Your Classroom, ASCD
- Inside a Trauma-informed Classroom, National Education Association
Other Resources
- Creating a Trauma-Sensitive Classroom (Quick Reference Guide) Pamphlet by Kristin Souers and Pete Hall
- Morning Meetings and Closing Circles: Classroom-Ready Activities That Increase Student Engagement and Create a Positive Learning Community (Books for Teachers) by Monica Dunbar
