Directions:

Consider either Alex or Chiara from the opening scenarios presented in Creating Trauma-Sensitive Classrooms.

Create a chart with three columns. In the first column list behaviors described. In the second column, describe words a person might use to describe those behaviors without a trauma-informed perspective. In the third column, describe the function of the behavior through a trauma-informed lens.

Behavior Described	Trauma Glasses Off	Trauma Glasses On
Example: The student puts head down on the table, does not participate in classroom activities.	Lazy	The student lacks organizational skills to know where to start, feels overwhelmed.

Describe three strategies you will use in your own classroom to demonstrate a trauma-informed approach.

Describe the strategies you have observed in your Practicum placement that would be constructive to share with your classmates.

Resources:

https://www.naeyc.org/resources/pubs/yc/may2015/trauma-sensitive-classrooms

https://freespiritpublishingblog.com/2019/12/17/creating-trauma-sensitive-classrooms-in-early-childhood/