Creating Cultures of Care: A Practical Chat on Trauma-Informed Positive Youth Development
- Ivana Zajkovska
- Oct 13, 2023
- 3 min read
As adults, we may be at a loss in how to best support our children as they navigate the challenge of growing up in the face of current world affairs. Questions loom: What is our role in the development of our children? How do we prepare our children for the "real world" without crushing their hopes and spirits?
Positive Youth Development (PYD) theory says we do this by shifting our attention away from simply managing risks and toward building strengths in young people. Today, however, I want to dive into what this may look like through the lens of Trauma-Informed Positive Youth Development. Whether you're steering youth programs, shaping young minds in classrooms, or guiding your children at home, this blog is your backstage pass to practical tips that can amp up your impact on the young minds around you.
First, let's define and clarify some terms
What is trauma?
"Trauma results from an event, series of events, or set of circumstances that is experienced by an individual as physically or emotionally harmful or life-threatening. Trauma has lasting adverse effects on the individual's functioning and mental, physical, social, emotional, or spiritual well-being." (Act for Youth)
What is a trauma-informed approach?
"A trauma-informed approach to programming means understanding, recognizing, preparing for, and responding to the effects trauma may have on program participants." (Act for Youth)
"Trauma-informed care is an evidenced based approach and a paradigm shift from one that asks, “What’s wrong with you?” to one that asks, “What has happened to you?”" (Trauma Informed Care and Positive Youth Development)
Now, let's take some action
Practical Tips for Youth Directors:
Create Safe Spaces: Let's talk ambiance! Check out your program spaces – are they cozy and inviting? Think about lighting, seating, and overall vibes. Making a safe haven sets the stage for some seriously positive vibes.
Trauma Awareness Training: Time for a power-up for your team! Invest in training sessions about trauma awareness. Invest in comprehensive training sessions for your team to equip them with the skills to spot signs of trauma* and respond like superheroes. Knowledge is power!
Trust Through Consistency: Let’s keep it real – consistency is the superhero cape. Set up routines, communicate expectations clearly, and create a vibe that's predictably awesome. Trust is built on foundations of stability.
Practical Tips for Teachers:
Individualized Approaches: Students aren’t clones! Tailor your teaching methods to accommodate diverse learning styles and paces. Offering choices and flexible assignments lets students take the driver’s seat – a win-win!
Regular Check-Ins: Time for the teacher-student heart-to-hearts! Schedule regular check-ins for some face time. It’s like a virtual hug for communication. Identify challenges, build trust, and keep those good vibes flowing.
Partner up with Families: Let’s talk teamwork! Forge strong connections with parents and families. Communication is everything: regular updates, sharing insights, and involving families in the learning journey create a united front for the student's success. It's like a big, supportive family coming together for a common cause.
Practical Strategies for Parents:
Active Listening: Pull up a chair, parents! Active listening is the secret sauce. Create a no-judgment zone where your kids can spill the beans. Validate their feelings (note, that validation is not the same as agreement), and let them know their emotions are acknowledged and respected.
Model Healthy Coping: Show off your own resilience moves! Model healthy coping mechanisms when the going gets tough. Whether it's a stress-busting dance or a chat with a friend, let your kids see your coping skills in action.
Team Up with the School: It’s a tag team effort! Team up with your child's school, share pertinent information about your child's experiences, and keep the communication lines open. A united front ensures a consistent and supportive environment for the child.
Conclusion:
From a PYD perspective, no single factor or experience predetermines a young person’s life outcomes. Instead, their development emerges from the dynamic interplay between themselves and their environment, emphasizing the promotion of individual strengths. This underscores the importance of emphasizing and nurturing individual strengths as a cornerstone of their development.
Incorporating trauma-informed practices into youth programming doesn't require a complete overhaul or a superhero cape - just some thoughtful integration into existing approaches. By creating safe spaces, fostering trust, and keeping things personalized, youth directors, teachers, and parents are shaping a future where every young superstar can thrive, regardless of the hurdles. As we weave trauma-informed principles into our daily interactions, we contribute to a future where every young person can thrive, regardless of their past challenges.
Comments