From Trauma Reactive to Trauma Responsive – Becoming a Trauma Responsive Primary School 6.3.23

Research informs us that over 50% of all children will have experienced a traumatic event by the time they reach adulthood. (Copeland, W.E. et al, 2007) These children often get stuck in a survival loop which diminishes their capacity to regulate their emotions and behaviour. They no longer feel safe. Learning can only happen when a child feels safe.

Trauma informed schools promote feelings of physical, social and emotional safety in children. A trauma informed school understands and recognises the impact of trauma on children and their learning and responds to these children in a way that promotes growth and healing. When we understand challenging behaviour as a possible trauma response, we can meet that behaviour with compassion and connection rather than sanctions and punishment. A trauma informed school will be curious about what has happened to the struggling child rather than being preoccupied with what is wrong with him.

This webinar will support participants to

? Understand the impact of Trauma on a child’s lived world

? Respond compassionately to increase a felt sense of safety

? Create a trauma sensitive learning environment

Facilitator: Aideen Flynn, Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist