Students and trauma – how to help

School districts have resumed in-person learning and children can now enjoy being with their teachers and interacting with their classmates, rather than navigating their way through remote learning or from a hybrid route.

An article written by the U.S. Department of Education, titled, “Tips for Helping Students Recovering from Traumatic Events” offers helpful advice for students whose lives have been affected by the recent pandemic. Here are some of the highlights. You can also find in this publication – along with other helpful resources – in our resource library which is available to empac members.

Children will react differently to traumatic experiences than adults do. It’s also important to note that as a parent, you should be extra observant during emotionally straining times. Key points to highlight include monitoring your child’s behavior and tendencies. It’s critical as a parent to make your child know that you are willing to listen. While acknowledging that your child is going through these traumatic experiences, allow them to still be children. Find ways to let them interact with their peers in a safe environment while also trying to keep your child on a routine. Parents, don’t forget to take care of yourself as well. When your children see their parents demonstrating healthy habits with an immense amount of energy, your children will reciprocate your actions.

As students navigate their way through a traumatic experience, the U.S. Department of Education recommends limiting their exposure to news outlets, due to the overwhelming emotion that the media can create. Staying in touch with their old friends and getting involved in activities that exercise their minds and bodies are all critical habits to form when a student is processing trauma.

Teachers are considered among the most important adults in a student’s life when making a difficult transition. All students have different forms of coping mechanisms when handling stress and anxiety, a consistent support system with a caring voice in order to settle their worry is crucial. For school leaders, it’s important to acknowledge their resources in order for all community members to ensure the students are in good hands. Social services, mental health services, and in-service training programs on warning signs for serious crises should all be accessible for students and their parents.

Administrators have the ability to make early decisions for students who are facing difficulty adjusting to the overall school climate after a traumatic experience. Staff will also express troubles coping with trauma, providing teachers with guidelines for leading class discussions or encouraging specific teaching lessons on traumatic support can help engage students and teachers in healthy conversation.

Coaches hold an immense amount of influence when it comes to the lives of our nation’s youth. For most students, sports have the ability to let athletes express themselves, connect with their peers, and succeed in a variety of skills. Coaches need to consider ways to include all athletes even if sports teams are already formed, making an athlete feel included will help them not feel isolated or alone.

It’s important to remember that empac services are offered not only for employees but for all members of the employee’s household, Lea reminds.

“Having a confidential, cost-free resource to help resolve those issues is paramount in lessening the distraction those situations can cause,” she says.

Empac offers a variety of services that include experienced counselors with diverse backgrounds and expertise, capable of navigating students through difficult situations.