Trauma-Informed Teaching: Empowering Students through Compassionate Education

Course Outline:

1. Introduction to Trauma-Informed Teaching
   • Defining trauma and its prevalence in educational settings
   • Understanding the effects of trauma on students’ learning and behavior
   • Recognizing the importance of trauma-informed approaches in teaching
2. The Neurobiology of Trauma
   • Exploring the impact of trauma on the brain and learning processes
   • Understanding the fight, flight, or freeze response and its implications for students
   • Applying trauma-sensitive practices to support emotional regulation and self-regulation
3. Creating a Safe and Supportive Learning Environment
   • Establishing trust and building relationships with students
   • Implementing trauma-informed classroom policies and practices
   • Addressing triggers and promoting emotional safety
4. Cultivating Resilience and Self-Care
   • Promoting self-awareness and self-regulation for educators
   • Recognizing signs of secondary trauma and burnout
   • Developing self-care strategies to sustain personal well-being
5. Adapting Instructional Strategies
   • Differentiating instruction to meet diverse needs and abilities
   • Incorporating trauma-sensitive practices into lesson planning and delivery
   • Supporting academic progress while considering emotional well-being
6. Building Social-Emotional Skills
   • Teaching social-emotional competencies and emotional intelligence
   • Implementing mindfulness and relaxation techniques
   • Encouraging peer support and collaboration
7. Trauma-Informed Classroom Management
   • Applying restorative practices and conflict resolution techniques
   • Addressing challenging behaviors with empathy and understanding
   • Creating a positive and strengths-based classroom culture
8. Collaboration with Families and the Community
   • Engaging families as partners in supporting trauma-informed approaches
   • Collaborating with mental health professionals and community resources
   • Facilitating a network of support for students both inside and outside the classroom
9. Reflecting and Evolving as a Trauma-Informed Educator
   • Engaging in self-reflection and continuous professional growth
   • Evaluating the effectiveness of trauma-informed practices
   • Establishing a learning community for ongoing support and collaboration

Course Format: The online class is delivered through a combination of video lectures, readings, case studies, interactive discussions, and practical exercises. Participants will have access to a learning platform where they can engage with the course materials, interact with fellow educators, and receive guidance from an experienced instructor. The class will be self-paced, allowing participants to complete the coursework according to their own schedules. Included in the price of the course is a copy of the book, Trauma Informed Teaching.

Target Audience: This online class is designed for educators at all levels, including teachers, administrators, counselors, and support staff. It is relevant to professionals working in various educational settings, such as schools, colleges, and community organizations, who are committed to creating inclusive and trauma-informed learning environments.

By the end of this course, participants will develop a comprehensive understanding of trauma-informed teaching practices, enabling them to create nurturing classrooms that empower students to heal, grow, and thrive academically and emotionally.