In module 3, we will move to a new important topic in the early childhood field, child trauma is very real and from everything we see in the media as well as social media, we need to know how to care for our youngest children. So in this module, we will move to the conversation of another form of Health that many know about but it is still not something many accept - Mental Health.  In this module, we will discuss What is Child Trauma? and the importance of Self-Care and Wellness of Early Childhood Professionals (you).

The goal of this module is to bring the realization of child trauma and how it may affect you. This can be a hard topic for some, so if you find any of the conversations difficult, please stop and take care of yourself, then come back to it. If you find that you need to speak to someone, feel free to reach out to me or our college Counselor for help. She is able to schedule online appointments or phone calls to speak with you.

Learning Objectives for Module 3:

1. Students will learn definitions of child trauma.
   
2. Students will learn about the difference between Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES) and traumatic events.
   
3. Students will learn about the science of neglect.
   
4. Students will learn where racial injustice fits into the discussion of trauma.
   
5. Students will learn about well-being and mindfulness.
   
6. Students will learn about Secondary Traumatic Stress prevention in the workforce.
7. Students will learn the importance of self-care for educators.
8. Students will learn about the definitions of stress.
9. Students will learn various strategies to relieve stress.

Assignments for Module 3:

1. Read the content pages  3.1 - 3.13 on What is Trauma and Self-Care and Wellness for Early Childhood Professionals

2. Complete the discussion on Trauma Matters: Understanding the Brain

3. Complete and submit your Self-Care Reflection Journal Assignment in the Assignment dropbox. If you haven't already started this assignment, you may not be successful - you cannot do it in one day!