Trauma Informed Practice: Working with Children Exposed to Trauma

Potential Effects of Working with Children Who Have Experienced Trauma

Introduction to Secondary Traumatic Stress
Children who have been exposed to trauma may experience stress. Stress is a physical, mental or emotional response that can cause tension. (Source- Cleveland clinic). Not every situation that causes stress is traumatic, however. Each day, we all experience stressors. When we sense a student is feeling stressed, it is important to note that emotions have taken over and it may be difficult to talk or rationalize with the student. It may also trigger our own stress.
Triggers are reminders of past traumatic experiences that automatically cause the body to react as if the traumatic event is happening again. Example: a child who lives in a violent home may react to slamming doors, a raised voice or threatening tone.
This response is important for educators to understand so the environment can be monitored for triggers that may impact a child’s ability to be successful in the school setting. The natural reaction of the body to respond can be a challenge during the school day when the environment can be loud and chaotic. The response can seem confusing or odd to others, but it is important to remember the child may not be able to access the rational, thinking brain. When a child is in this state, threatening punishment or trying to convince them they are overreacting can cause harm.

Triggers for Children in the School Setting

Loud Noises
Physical touch
Threatening gestures
Authority figures and limit-setting
Chaos or uncertainty
Particular spaces, such as bathrooms or areas that are dimly lit or less monitored
Changes in routine
Hand or body gestures perceived as threatening
Witnessing violence between others, such as peers fighting
Emergency vehicles and police or fire personnel
Certain smells
Weather
Particular times of the year

Responses to Triggers in School Setting