According to Numerous studies (such as the Adverse Childhood Experiences Study by Vincent Felitti M.D. and Robert Anda M.D.), “at least 75% of the population has experienced at least one traumatic event in their life”. Living in our increasingly globalized world, we may also have refugee students who have experienced the trauma of war first-hand.
Kids are particularly vulnerable to trauma, since their brains are still developing important neural pathways. As teachers, it’s incredibly important to know that many of our students are carrying the baggage of trauma when they come to school. We need to be prepared to make our classroom a safe space for these kids.
In our classrooms, we may see trauma affect student learning and behaviour. When kids have experienced trauma it can impact their attendance rate, concentration and confidence in class, and physical and emotional health.
As teachers, there are a variety of things we can do to build a safer classroom environment for our students who have experienced trauma. Some examples from the National Child Traumatic Stress Network include,
- Giving choices to students
- Maintaining routines
- Setting boundaries with logical consequences NOT punishments
- Providing a safe space in the classroom
- Being sensitive to environmental cues
- Warning students when unexpected events may occur
Meanwhile, Nova Scotia Health Authority emphasizes being trauma aware, building a sense of safety and trustworthiness, giving students opportunities for “choice, collaboration and connection” and “strengths-based skill building and empowerment”, being aware of cultural, historical and gender issues, and nurturing a relationship between families, students, and other important care providers.
As teachers we need to be aware of the lasting impact of trauma. However, it is equally important to remember that these students can build new healthy pathways in their brain. We have the opportunity to help nurture these new pathways through building relationships and teaching social-emotional practices like emotional resilience, non-violent communication, restitution, and general mindfulness activities.
Teaching Kat 