Prepare for a Trauma-Informed School Year: An Educator Guide
As the new school year approaches, teachers are busy preparing their classrooms and lesson plans, organizing supplies, and setting goals for their students. They think about creating engaging lesson plans, establishing routines, decorating their classrooms, and setting the tone for the year. While all of these tasks are important, one element of preparation that can have the biggest impact on creating a supportive, successful school year is integrating Trauma-Informed Practices.
At Resilient Futures, we believe that creating a trauma-informed classroom is essential for fostering a safe and nurturing learning environment. Trauma-informed practices not only help support students who have experienced trauma but also create a more inclusive and understanding atmosphere for all students and Educators. Here’s how you can proactively set yourself up for success.
Creating a Trauma-Informed Classroom Environment
Creating a trauma-informed classroom environment is about more than just physical setup; it's about creating a safe, supportive space where all students can thrive. The right physical objects and spaces can help students feel secure and valued, which is especially important for those who have experienced trauma.
Physical Objects and Spaces
Calming Corners: Designate a calming corner in your classroom equipped with soft cushions, blankets, stress-relief toys, and calming visuals. This space provides students with a safe area to regulate their emotions when they feel overwhelmed. Check out our free downloadable guide with a supply list, speaking prompts, and set-up tips: Creating a “Peace Place”: Fostering Self-Regulation in Students
Flexible Seating: If possible, offer a variety of seating options such as bean bags, rocking chairs, and standing desks. Arrange desk/chair seating in groups, tables, and some individual spaces for students who may benefit from a separate space throughout the day. Allowing students to choose where they sit, and the ability to change their minds., can help them feel more in control and comfortable.
Sensory Tools: Include sensory tools like fidget spinners, stress balls, and noise-canceling headphones to help students manage anxiety and stay focused.
Nature Elements: Incorporate elements of nature like plants, natural light, and pictures of calming landscapes. These can reduce stress and create a more serene environment.
Personalization: Encourage students to personalize their space with their artwork, photos, and projects. This makes the classroom feel more like a community space and less institutional.
Messaging in the Classroom
The messages you display in your classroom can significantly impact the emotional climate. Positive, inclusive messaging helps create an atmosphere where students feel safe, supported, and valued. Here are some ideas for what to put on your classroom walls.
Affirmations and Positive Quotes: Decorate the walls with affirmations and positive quotes that encourage resilience, kindness, and self-worth. Messages like "You Matter," "You Are Capable," and "Mistakes Are Proof That You Are Trying" can uplift students.
Guidelines for Safe Spaces: Post classroom guidelines that emphasize respect, empathy, and safety. Clearly communicate that the classroom is a safe space for all emotions and experiences.
Mindfulness and Breathing Techniques: Display posters that teach simple mindfulness exercises and breathing techniques. These can be quick, go-to strategies for students to calm themselves. Check out our free download: Mindfulness Breaks for the Classroom and Beyond
Visual Schedules: Provide visual schedules that outline the day’s activities. This helps students feel more secure by knowing what to expect.
Structuring Activities and Lesson Plans
How you structure your classroom activities and lesson plans can make a big difference in how students feel and perform. Trauma-informed structuring helps to create predictability and security, which can reduce anxiety and help students feel more engaged and supported.
Morning Meetings: Start the day with a morning meeting to build a sense of community. Use this time to check in with students emotionally and set a positive tone for the day. This is a great time to remind the students that the class is a family and to allow any students with updates a moment to share personal news or stories.
Predictable Routines: Establish and maintain consistent routines. Predictability can reduce anxiety and help students feel more secure.
Flexible Lesson Plans: Plan lessons that are flexible and can be adjusted based on the student's emotional and mental states. Be prepared to pivot if you notice students are struggling, or offer movement breaks during more dense subject matter.
Collaborative Learning: Use collaborative learning techniques that encourage teamwork and peer support. Group activities can help build trust and social skills.
Trauma-Informed Language: Use trauma-informed language that acknowledges students' feelings and experiences when challenges arise. Phrases like "I understand this is hard," or "It's okay to feel upset," or “Let’s take a break and come back to this together” - can validate their emotions.
Trauma-Informed Body Language
Your body language can speak volumes, especially to students who are sensitive or have experienced trauma. Using trauma-informed body language can help create a sense of safety and trust, making students feel more comfortable and open to learning.
Open Posture: Maintain an open and relaxed posture to appear approachable and non-threatening. Avoid crossing your arms or standing over students, as these can be perceived as intimidating.
Eye Contact: Use gentle eye contact to convey attention and care, but be mindful that prolonged eye contact can be uncomfortable for some students.
Calm Voice: Speak in a calm, steady voice. Even when addressing misbehavior, keep your tone even and composed.
Personal Space: Respect students' personal space. Some students may feel anxious or threatened by physical proximity, so maintain a comfortable distance.
Active Listening: Show that you are listening by nodding, giving verbal affirmations, and reflecting back what students say. This demonstrates that their feelings and thoughts are valued. Check out our free download on Teaching & Modeling Dyadic Listening.
Integrating Trauma-Informed Practices into Daily Activities
Integrating trauma-informed practices into daily activities helps normalize these approaches, making them a natural part of the classroom environment. This can make students feel more supported and understood, improving their overall school experience.
Mindfulness Exercises: Incorporate short mindfulness exercises into the daily routine. Activities like deep breathing, guided imagery, or a moment of silence can help students center themselves. Check out our free download: Mindfulness Breaks for the Classroom and Beyond
Emotion Check-Ins: Regularly check in with students about their emotional state. Use tools like mood meters or feeling charts to help them express their emotions. Check out our free download: SEL & Emotional Literacy: Teaching Emotions and Body Sensations
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL): Integrate SEL activities into your curriculum. Teach skills like empathy, self-regulation, and conflict resolution through role-playing and group discussions.
Storytelling: Use storytelling to discuss emotions and experiences. Choose books and stories that reflect diverse experiences and teach about resilience and overcoming challenges.
Reflective Journaling: Encourage students to keep reflective journals where they can write about their feelings, experiences, and thoughts. Journaling can be a therapeutic way to process emotions.
Preparing for the Back-to-School Transition
Starting a new school year can be stressful for students, especially those who have experienced trauma. Proactively preparing for the back-to-school transition can help ease anxiety and set a positive tone for the year.
Pre-School Year Communication: Reach out to students and their families before the school year starts. Introduce yourself, share a bit about what to expect, and express your excitement for the upcoming year.
Helping Students Acclimate to the Classroom: Hold orientation sessions to familiarize students with the classroom, routines, and expectations. This can reduce first-day jitters and help them feel more comfortable. Include fun activities that are intended to introduce Trauma-Informed concepts in a fun, engaging way. Use our free download for Trauma-Informed Classroom Scavenger Hunts.
Resource Sharing: Provide families with resources on trauma-informed practices and how they can support their children at home. This creates a consistent support system between school and home.
Open-Door Policy: Establish an open-door policy for students to come to you with concerns or needs. Make sure they know they can talk to you anytime.
Preparing for a new school year with a trauma-informed approach can make a significant difference in the lives of your students. By creating a supportive environment, using trauma-informed practices, and being mindful of your interactions, you can help all students feel safe, valued, and ready to learn.
At Resilient Futures, we are committed to supporting educators in this journey. Our trauma-informed training and resources are designed to empower you with the knowledge and tools you need to create a positive and impactful classroom environment. Let’s make this school year the best one yet!
For more information on trauma-informed practices and our training programs, please contact us today.