Chapter Three: Emotional Resilience
Trauma can have a significant impact on students' behavior, academic performance, and overall well-being. Schools play a crucial role in providing a supportive and safe environment for students who have experienced trauma. Prairie Ridge Elementary School uses trauma-informed care practices to support the social and emotional needs of the students.
Prairie Ridge Elementary School recognizes the importance of trauma-informed care in understanding the impact of trauma on students' behavior and providing supportive environments. The school has implemented various trauma-informed care practices, including creating trauma-sensitive classrooms. These classrooms may be designed to minimize triggers, provide sensory
…show more content…
This includes developing personalized learning plans, providing flexible accommodations, and creating opportunities for students to have a voice and choice in their education. Educating other teachers on how to recognize triggers and trauma-related behaviors in students, and how to respond in a compassionate and supportive manner. Avoiding retraumatization by using trauma-sensitive language and providing opportunities for students to regulate their emotions and behaviors.Creating a safe and supportive school environment that gives a sense of belonging, connection, and trust. This includes implementing trauma-informed policies and practices, establishing clear expectations and boundaries, and promoting positive relationships among students, families, and I (their future teacher). Moving away from punitive discipline practices and adopting trauma-informed strategies that focus on building skills, resilience, and positive relationships. This includes offering counseling and mental health support, and providing alternatives to suspension and expulsion. Recognizing that trauma can affect families as well, and provide support and resources to families who have experienced trauma. This includes offering parenting education, counseling, and connecting families to community resources for additional support. Using trauma-sensitive language and communication strategies when interacting with students who have experienced trauma. Avoiding blaming, shaming, or stigmatizing language, and instead use language that validates and empowers students, while respecting their privacy and confidentiality. By implementing these specific suggestions, a culture shift towards a truly trauma-sensitive way of being can be a part of the educational community. Empowering school communities will create a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment that