The impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and trauma on student behaviors and learning is profound. Students who have faced ACEs often struggle with emotional regulation, maintaining focus, and building secure relationships. These challenges can lead to disruptive behaviors, disengagement, and academic underachievement in the classroom.
Educators possess the means to unlock the potential of students who have undergone ACEs and trauma. By embracing a trauma-informed approach, educators can mitigate the negative effects of adversity, promote resilience through positive childhood experiences, and transform student behavior and learning outcomes.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the potential for children exposed to trauma to exhibit maladaptive behaviors (both externalizing and internalizing) in the classroom.
- Explore co-regulation as an effective strategy for supporting the behavior of children exposed to trauma.
- Discuss the importance of maintaining personal self-regulation while assisting children exposed to trauma with their behavior.