As parents and carers, we all know that the return to school after the summer holidays can be a stressful time for children. But the summer of 2024 has been anything but typical. With civil unrest in parts of the UK and some very distressing news coverage from around the world, many children may be carrying more than just their school bags as they head back to the classroom. The events of this summer may have left many feeling anxious, fearful, or uncertain, making the transition to school even more challenging.
Trauma can deeply affect a child’s ability to focus, interact with others, and feel safe. As parents and carers, especially those who foster children, adopting a trauma-informed approach is key to helping them navigate these challenges. This post offers insights into trauma and its impact, along with practical strategies to support your child as they return to school, helping them to feel secure, supported, and ready to learn.
Understanding Trauma and Its Impact
Trauma is a reaction to distressing or disturbing events. For children, this can manifest in many ways, such as:
Trauma-Informed Parenting: Core Principles
To help your child cope with the aftermath of this summer, it’s important to focus on creating a supportive, understanding environment. This approach is based on a few key principles:
Safety: Ensure that your child feels both physically and emotionally secure at home. Create routines that provide a sense of stability and predictability, which can be comforting during times of uncertainty.
Trust and Transparency: Be open and honest with your child about what’s happening, while also providing reassurance. Consistent communication and predictable routines can help rebuild their sense of security.
Peer and Adult Support: Encourage connections with trusted adults and peers. These relationships can be a crucial source of comfort and stability.
Empowerment and Voice: Give your child opportunities to express their feelings and make choices where possible. This can help them regain a sense of control, especially when so much feels out of their hands.
Practical Strategies for Supporting Your Child
1. Create a Safe and Predictable Environment
Routine is crucial. Start the day with a familiar pattern—getting dressed, having breakfast together, and discussing the day ahead. Knowing what to expect helps children feel more in control and less anxious. At home, establish safe spaces where they can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. Ideally, if you can, these could be quiet corners filled with comforting items like books, toys, or soft blankets.
2. Build Trust and Open Communication
Children need to feel they can trust the adults in their lives. Be that stable, consistent presence. Take time to check in with them regularly, ask how they’re feeling, and listen to their concerns. If your child witnessed or has indirectly been affected by events like the riots, acknowledge their feelings and provide reassurance that they are safe now.
3. Encourage Social Connections
Help your child reconnect with friends and family members who offer positive support. Arrange playdates, family gatherings, or virtual meetups if in-person meetings aren’t possible. Rebuilding these connections can help them feel less isolated and more supported.
4. Collaborate with School and Professionals
Stay in touch with your child’s teachers and school staff. Discuss any concerns you have about their return to school and work together to create a plan that supports their needs. If your child is struggling, don’t hesitate to seek help from other professionals who can provide additional support.
5. Empower Your Child
Allow your child to make small choices throughout the day, whether it’s deciding what to wear or picking out a book to read before bed. These choices give them a sense of control, which is particularly important after experiencing events that felt out of their control. Encourage them to express their feelings through drawing, writing, or talking. Sometimes, simply giving them a voice can be incredibly empowering.
Conclusion
Supporting your child after a summer filled with challenges requires patience, understanding, and a trauma-informed approach. By focusing on safety, trust, and open communication, you can help your child feel more secure and ready to face the school year ahead. Remember, the goal is not just to help them cope, but to help them build resilience and confidence for the future. With your support, they can learn to navigate these difficult times and emerge stronger on the other side.