During this time of uncertainty and potentially traumatic consequence, Starr Commonwealth is committed to supporting teachers and other caring adults in whatever way we can. To best assist educators poised to provide the nurturing foundation our children need, we would like to offer our online course Trauma-Informed Resilient Schools free of charge to anyone interested in the underlying traumatic roots of behavior, as well as the key components necessary to allow students to flourish. Visit starr.org/tirs for more details.
Today, let’s take a look at what being trauma-informed and resilience focused really means – and how this relates to all we are experiencing with the coronavirus pandemic.
Uncertainty, increased worry, fear and lack of routine increase stress levels and exacerbate challenging behavior. When we connect behavior to experiences and the impact these experiences have on children’s bodies, we view them through a new lens. Then, we can begin to ask, “What new experiences – given all that this child has going on – are needed most right now?” Staying connected by phone or email, providing opportunities for play, music, movement and creativity every day will mitigate the impact of all they are experiencing related to COVID19.
