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Trauma is defined as an event or situation that exceeds one’s ability to cope. This definition is very individualized, which means that two people who experience the same event may not both view it as traumatic. Due to a variation in personality, social support, emotional well-being, and level of resilience, every individual has different strengths and resources upon which to draw. In other words, when trying to determine whether a student has experienced trauma, you must consider the degree to which the child was able to cope.

Extreme circumstances are almost certainly going to be traumatic for a child. Students living in property have inevitably experienced trauma when faced with food or housing insecurity, among other challenges. Students who have witnessed or experienced violence are likely to have been traumatized. Students who live in a home where there is alcohol or drug abuse are likely to experience trauma. However, students may experience trauma in less obvious ways, so it is important to view the situation through the eyes of the child, factoring in their ability to cope.

Self-Regulation Strategies Checklist

Parent/Teacher

This checklist is designed to help you assess the type of self-regulation strategies that the student may need.

Adaptive Strategies

Taking deep breaths

Listening to calming music

Taking a walk

Talking with a trusted adult

Asking for help

Exercise and/or heavy work

Swinging/Rocking

Non-adaptive Strategies

Running out of the classroom

Refusal or defiance

Stillness

Arguing and/or cursing

Physical aggression

Daydreaming

Avoidance and/or shutting down