Nadia Bucks
2. Create safe spaces
What does that mean?
It means that all learners feel protected by and connected to their educators and the school community and that rules for the learners are always fair, made with their needs in mind.
READ PART ONE: BLOG: Helping children deal with trauma
At the classroom level, educators can help build safety by creating fair, logical rules that are consistently reinforced.
For children exposed to trauma, this is particularly important, because they come from homes where rules may be associated with severe punishment.
READ THIS: BLOG: Socialising skills for children
It may help to use the word “expectations” rather than “rules” to communicate with students in a way that is less likely to trigger them.
Since children exposed to trauma often feel powerless around what’s happening in their lives, having them participate in creating classroom rules, and giving them choices and alternatives when making assignments, can help empower them. However, it’s important not to lower your academic expectations.
To be continued.
Click to receive news links via WhatsApp. Or for the latest news, visit our webpage or follow us on Facebook and Twitter
