Trauma-informed education is a critical aspect of creating supportive and nurturing learning environments for students at all levels. Here are 15 current best practices in education centered around trauma-informed approaches for elementary, middle school, and high school levels:

Best Practices

Professional Development for Educators: Provide comprehensive training and ongoing professional development for teachers and staff on trauma-informed practices, including understanding the impacts of trauma on learning and behavior.

Creating Safe and Supportive Environments: Foster a school culture that prioritizes safety, trust, and emotional well-being, including implementing trauma-sensitive classroom management techniques.

Relationship Building: Emphasize the importance of building positive relationships between educators and students, as well as among peers, to create a sense of belonging and connectedness.

Mindfulness and Self-Regulation Practices: Integrate mindfulness techniques and self-regulation strategies into daily routines to help students manage stress, regulate emotions, and develop resilience.

Flexible and Individualized Instruction: Implement differentiated instruction and personalized learning approaches to accommodate diverse learning needs and support students who may be experiencing academic challenges due to trauma.

Strengths-Based Approach: Focus on identifying and nurturing students' strengths and assets, rather than solely focusing on deficits or challenges, to promote a sense of competence and self-efficacy.

Culturally Responsive Teaching: Recognize and honor the cultural backgrounds and identities of students, incorporating culturally responsive teaching practices to create inclusive learning environments.

Trauma-Sensitive Pedagogy: Integrate trauma-informed teaching strategies, such as providing clear expectations, offering choices, and maintaining consistency, to minimize triggers and create a sense of predictability for students.

Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Curriculum: Implement evidence-based SEL programs that teach skills such as self-awareness, social awareness, empathy, and responsible decision-making to support students' overall well-being.

Collaboration with Mental Health Professionals: Establish partnerships with mental health professionals and community organizations to provide additional support and resources for students who may require mental health services.

Family and Community Engagement: Involve families and caregivers in the education process through open communication, family workshops, and community events, recognizing the crucial role they play in supporting students' academic and emotional growth.

Trauma-Informed Discipline Policies: Review and revise disciplinary policies to align with trauma-informed principles, focusing on prevention, de-escalation, and restorative practices rather than punitive measures.

Sensory-Friendly Environments: Create sensory-friendly classrooms and spaces that accommodate students with sensory sensitivities or processing difficulties, such as providing sensory tools and minimizing sensory overload.

Trauma-Sensitive Assessment Practices: Implement assessment methods that are sensitive to the effects of trauma, such as providing alternative assessment formats, extended time, or accommodations for students who may struggle with test anxiety or concentration difficulties.

Self-Care for Educators: Prioritize the well-being of educators by promoting self-care practices, offering opportunities for reflection and support, and fostering a culture of empathy and compassion within the school community.


By incorporating these best practices into educational settings, schools can create environments that support the academic, social, and emotional growth of all students, including those impacted by trauma.