Community trauma
Welcome to the Community trauma learning pathway, this pathway is for educators in early learning, primary and secondary learning settings.
Children of all ages depend on the adults around them for safety and security, especially in times of stress. In the wake of a community trauma event (such as a natural disaster, violent incident or pandemic), they will need reassurance, care and opportunities to share their feelings.
Educators are a key source of support for children and families following a community trauma event. You may act as first responders during the event, and play an important role in re-establishing routines and identifying those children who are showing signs of mental health difficulties.
Whether you work in early childhood care, primary or secondary school, these courses will provide you with the tools you need to help yourself and the children in your care to navigate the different stages of a community trauma. They provide a practical framework and tips for supporting children, young people and yourself in the immediate, short and long-term following a community trauma event. They also offer preparedness skills and knowledge you can use in your daily programs and practice.
Learning outcomes
As you progress through this learning pathway you will build your understanding and skills across a range of key areas, including:
- the potential impact of trauma caused by natural disasters or community trauma on children
- recognising children's responses to natural disasters and community trauma in the immediate aftermath, the short-term and the long-term after the event
- identifying how learning communities can support children and families to recover from a natural disaster or community trauma in the immediate aftermath, the short-term, and the long-term; and
- incorporating trauma responsive strategies into the educator role and learning community following natural disasters or community trauma.