Many teachers are starting to recognize how much trauma shapes the way students learn and behave in the classroom. Sometimes it’s from a single event, and other times it can be from ongoing stress; either way, it often shows up in the classroom.
For some children, it may look like withdrawal or avoiding interaction. For others, it may show up as acting out or struggling to pay attention. No matter how it shows up in students, it clearly leaves an impact.
Fostering a trauma-informed classroom and trauma-informed teaching means you’re creating a place that feels safe and supportive. When you use predictable routines, compassionate discipline, and teach students how to manage their emotions, you are not only helping them learn but also heal.
Here are some practical ways to cultivate a trauma-informed classroom.
Prioritize Psychological Safety
Students dealing with trauma need to know they are in a safe space. A place where they won’t feel judged or ashamed for their feelings or behavior. You can create this type of space by doing simple things like greeting students at the door, asking them how they are doing, and acknowledging their feelings.
A classroom that has soft neutral colors, warm lighting, a quiet corner to relax and read in, and a place that is clean and organized can help students feel less anxious and more at ease. These types of environments feel safe and inviting.
Build Strong and Predictable Routines
Trauma often leaves children feeling like their world is unpredictable and they have no sense of control. Being in an inconsistent environment can intensify feelings, while more predictable environments and routines create a sense of security because they’ll know what to expect.
When creating a trauma-informed classroom environment, establish a daily routine and stick with it. Post the schedule for students to see and be sure to give warnings before you transition to the next activity. This will help prepare students for any upcoming change and ease their anxiety. Additionally, when something unexpected turns up – like a fire drill, walk students through the change in routine to help them adjust quickly.
Teach and Model Self-Regulation Skills
Students who have experienced trauma often have a hard time regulating their emotions. Teach them self-regulation strategies to support learning, and so they will have the tools throughout their lifetime.
Start by modeling self-regulation yourself. When you feel stressed, tell students how you are feeling and show them how you are going to handle it. This could be through deep breathing, stretching, using a stress ball, or any other stress-reducing exercise.
Incorporate calming techniques into the day, like taking a few deep breaths or using stress balls, or building in brain breaks where students get up and move around during certain parts of the day.
Consider teaching specific strategies like using positive self-talk, journaling, and counting slowly while taking deep breaths. Over time, students will learn which techniques work best for them and choose the tools that help calm them down.
Use Compassionate Discipline
Discipline in a trauma-informed classroom is about learning the “why” behind the student’s behavior; it’s not about punishing them. Taking away recess or sending the student to the office will only work temporarily.
What these students need are the skills and tools to know how to handle the situation next time. For example, a disruptive student may be struggling with impulse control. If this is the case, offer them chances to practice self-control.
When any misbehavior happens, try using restorative practices. Ask students, “How do you think your actions have affected others?” or “What do you think you can do to make this right?” This approach helps to hold students accountable.
Cultivate Strong Student-Teacher Relationships
Relationships are the foundation of a trauma-informed classroom. Students who feel seen and heard are more likely to engage in learning. Take time to connect with the student on a personal level. Ask about their day, weekend, and life, and remember the details.
This can make a huge difference in a child who feels invisible to others. Follow through, too, because reliability builds trust and trust is what trauma-informed students need the most.
Balance High Expectations with Empathy
Maintain high standards; this shows that you believe in your students’ ability to succeed. When you see a student who is struggling, show them empathy by saying, “I can see that this is tough, let’s try and figure out how to get you where you need to be.” This will show that you are invested in their success and not mad that they didn’t meet your expectations.
It’s also important to give students choices. Consider using choice boards or allowing them to choose between two different assignments. Let them choose the book they want to read or where they want to read it in the classroom. When you give them choices, it gives them a sense of control, which is something trauma often takes away from them.
Why This Approach Matters
Cultivating trauma-informed teaching strategies isn’t just about helping struggling students get through the day; it’s about creating a space where they have the tools and skills to thrive on their own. When students feel safe and supported, they are more equipped to build healthy relationships, be more resilient, and take risks. Instead of saying, “What’s wrong with this student?” Ask yourself, “How can I best support this student?”
For many students, trauma is unavoidable. However, the classroom can be a place where they feel understood, valued, and safe. It can be a place where they heal. By focusing on the specific strategies mentioned, you can create a classroom where everyone has the chance to succeed.
You’ve got important career goals — we have the graduate program to get you there. Check out our available graduate degree programs to advance your career today!
