Are you Trauma-Informed?

10/13/2016

Because learning always involves feelings, we must protect the right of all children to have a hallelujah kind of childhood.
Bev Bos, Teacher, 1934-2016

"Brain research reveals that a strong supportive relationship can provide our brains with important protection from the effects of toxic stress. We also know that positive, trusting relationships have a stronger influence on resilience the earlier in life these are experienced."

This insight is from Ileen Henderson, author of An Informed Approach for Teaching Children Who are Living with Poverty from the Beginnings Professional Development Workshop, Impact of Poverty.

How can we help children?
"It is important to remember that research clearly shows strong, responsive and supportive adult relationships are the strongest predictors for mitigating the impact of chronic and toxic stress on children. Being aware of the messages we are sending through our tone of voice and body language will assist (children) in building a sense of personal safety through consistent and predictable interactions."

How can we help families?
"Use a holistic perspective and see a child as part of a family, recognizing that a parent is also an individual. Include parents in activities if possible. A (parent) may never have had the ability to play and experience a normal childhood herself, so she may enjoy activities that are geared for her children."

Gryphon House - Outdoor play never looked so good.

Build Early Learning Skills with the Fun Preschool Magazine.

For more information about Exchange's magazine, books, and other products pertaining to ECE, go to www.ccie.com.