Building an Inclusive Trauma-Responsive Classroom

Supporting students who have experienced trauma is a global topic in educational research. Children with and without disabilities affected by trauma may experience difficulty developing cognitive and executive functioning skills and regulating behaviors, which can have a negative impact on their ability to successfully participate in the educational setting. However, children with disabilities may experience higher trauma responses. Students may benefit from educators who utilize trauma-inclusive teaching strategies and have the knowledge, training, and skills to support the unique needs of students impacted by trauma. Effective support must employ more trauma-sensitive, strength-based intervention techniques to build skills aligned with the student’s strengths. The article describes the Trauma-Informed Positive Education model, which emphasizes the development and reinforcement of children’s strengths and strategies to support children who are exhibiting trauma responses in educational environments.