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October 29, 2024
Discover practical, trauma-informed strategies to foster a safe, supportive classroom environment that nurtures children’s well-being and resilience through the transformative five healing gestures explored by AFT trainer Jim Arey.
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In today’s schools, children are navigating many external and internal challenges. As educators, it’s crucial to create environments where students feel safe and supported. Trauma-informed practice is a framework designed to build a culture in classrooms that enables all students to succeed, no matter their circumstances.
In this second episode of the Welcome-to-Teaching Conversation Series, AFT trainer Jim Arey explores practical steps, using the five healing gestures that can make a significant impact on our students' well-being.
One of the most fundamental acts in trauma-informed practice is listening. Students need to feel heard and validated. Building relationships with your students is crucial because they will know you are there and that they have someone who will truly listen to them. Practice unconditional love and compassion. Educators must show kindness, even when students might not reflect it back and even when they make mistakes or struggle. Be present for your students, by greeting them when they come into your classroom and checking in either formally or informally.
I try to let my students know that their voices matter, and it’s okay to share what’s on their minds.
Adults who provide consistent emotional and physical support can buffer a child’s fight-or-flight stress response. Educators can help buffer these stressors by providing a consistent, reassuring presence for their students. Be patient with students when they exhibit challenging behaviors, and remain a calming presence. Through practices like meditation, teachers can demonstrate how to moderate emotions effectively. Students who have experienced trauma often have heightened stress responses.
Children who experience trauma may struggle with understanding other’s points of view or working with others. Teaching children how to engage with each other and to value their own perspectives is key. Ensure your classroom is a calming and welcoming space for everyone. Embed opportunities for group work and teamwork in the curriculum through experiential learning, so students can learn to work together and create a collaborative learning environment. Involve students in setting classroom rules and consequences, which gives them ownership in the day-to-day functions of their environment.
Celebrating both achievements and efforts can build students’ self-esteem and create a positive culture. You should praise student effort, not just results, because success happens through learning and growth. Failure is also a part of learning, and we should embrace all effort that contributes to growth.
Students need to believe in their potential, and educators should encourage all students to dream big and aspire toward a positive future. Teach students the value of doing good for others, which fosters a sense of connection and community. You can also inspire students through daily affirmations that encourage them to recognize their value. Sharing positive moments with parents and families can reinforce that support at home.
Trauma-informed practices aren't just about managing behaviors—they're about creating a culture of compassion, resilience and growth. By implementing these healing gestures, educators can build environments where all students feel heard, valued and inspired to succeed.
In this collection, we offer an archive of resources to help manage student behavior, from the wiggliest first-grader to the most aloof high schooler.
Tune in to the Welcome to Teaching series, where we follow two early career teachers as they navigate the school year. In each episode, you'll get a real-time look at their goals, challenges, and successes, with insights from veteran educators, experts, and AFT leaders in professional development. Whether you're a new teacher or simply looking for inspiration, this series provides valuable guidance and support for those embarking on their teaching journey.
