Research suggests that approximately 25% of American children will experience at least one traumatic event by the age of 16. A child's reactions to trauma can interfere considerably with learning and/or behavior at school. Schools serve as a critical system of support for children who have experienced trauma. Administrators, teachers, and staff can help reduce the effects of trauma on children by recognizing trauma responses, accommodating and responding to traumatized students within the classroom, and referring children to outside professionals when necessary. The National Child Traumatic Stress Network has developed tools and materials to help educators, school staff, and administrators understand and respond to the specific needs of traumatized children. In addition to the NCTSN resources highlighted below, School Personnel can learn more about creating trauma-informed schools in the Trauma-Informed Care section of this website.
Offers teachers a quick resource for using the Core Actions of Psychological First Aid in response to an emergency event on school grounds.
Offers teachers guidance on helping students after a mass violence event. This fact sheet describes common reactions students may have, how teachers and school staff can help, as well as engage in self-care after a mass violence event.
Describes risk factors for and signs of secondary traumatic stress in educators, as well as techniques for prevention and self-care.
Describes how best to prepare our children for emergencies. This webinar discusses how to prepare for events from a community preparedness and resilience standpoint, as well as emergency preparedness within school settings.
Offers teachers guidance on helping students after a tornado. This fact sheet describes common reactions students may have, how teachers and school staff can help, as well as engage in self-care after a tornado.
Discusses trauma-informed assessment in schools, differential diagnosis, and trauma-informed IEPs (Individualized Education Plans).
Identifies principles and strategies for effective implementation of trauma-focused, evidence-based practices in school settings.
Focuses on partnering with schools to enhance mental health and trauma-informed services designed to inform both school personnel and mental health professionals about the impact of traumatic events.
Discusses the impact of sudden death on children and the school community. This webinar provides best practices in the areas of prevention, response and recovery, school staff support, and self-care.
Provides information on the prevalence and impact of trauma as a lens through which to deepen our understanding of bullying.
Discusses the need for, and the benefits of, a school based mental health program. This webinar offers suggestions on building relationships with schools, as well as case examples of successful school/mental health partnerships.
Offers information on childhood traumatic grief. This fact sheet provides descriptions of childhood traumatic grief, normal and typical grief, and what to do for childhood traumatic grief for teachers and school personnel.