20/02/2025
What if every teacher and teaching assistant knew this one sentence?
Trauma-informed practice goes far beyond simply knowing about trauma. It means we recognise how profoundly trauma can affect a person’s emotional regulation and thinking. It means we don’t condemn or punish someone for struggling to regulate their emotions. Instead, we think about what might have happened to them and how we can be part of their healing process.
And healing is possible. Dr. Bruce Perry, one of the leading experts in this field, reminds us that safe, trusting relationships with reliable adults are the most significant protective factor for young people who have experienced trauma.
In schools, this is essential because trauma isn’t rare—it’s a part of life. Around 50% of all people have at least one adverse childhood experience (ACE), and those who are most vulnerable may have experienced four or more. So, what if every teacher and TA was equipped with the small strategies that make a big difference?
One simple yet powerful phrase is:
“I noticed that...” followed by “I’m wondering if...”
This approach is non-threatening, curious, and compassionate. It communicates that we see the young person’s experience without judgment and signals a desire to understand what’s behind their behavior. It opens the door to connection and healing. Compare that to the typical response of “I’m warning you—do that again, and there’ll be consequences.” The difference is stark.
Here’s a practical example:
In a school where wearing a hood inside is against the rules, a student enters a classroom and immediately puts their hood up. It might seem like they’re deliberately breaking the rules.
Instead of saying:
“Hood down!
We could say:
“I noticed you put your hood up. I’m wondering if it’s because you’re feeling uneasy with the new teaching assistant in the room?” Or if another child said something to you about your hair?
One approach escalates; the other builds trust and offers a chance for self-regulation. This is not common than you would think…,
Trauma is a big issue in our schools, but healing is possible—when all of us consistently do the small things to help our young people develop into balanced, happy adults.
Please contact me if I can help.
