Supporting Traumatized Children in the Classroom

"Children in foster care are among the most vulnerable and underserved populations in the education system. They experience higher rates of trauma, placement instability, learning gaps, and emotional and behavioral challenges than their peers. With more than 400,000 children in foster care in the United States at any given time, educators are often on the front lines of support, even if they are not aware of it."

"A child may not announce that they're in care, but their story often shows up in the classroom through behaviors such as anger, anxiety, and shame, as well as struggling with academic or social engagement. So, what can today's educators do to support traumatized youth? The answer begins with understanding, followed by intentional action. Educators don't need to become therapists or caseworkers, but with the right knowledge, empathy, and strategies, they can be powerful agents of stability and healing."

Children in foster care commonly experience trauma, placement instability, learning gaps, and emotional and behavioral challenges that affect brain development, attention, memory, and regulation. Trauma responses often appear as defiance, zoning out, or apathy rather than willful misbehavior, because nervous systems remain on high alert after chaos or unpredictability. Providing consistency, safety, predictable routines, and a sense of control supports regulation and engagement. Educators are often frontline supports and do not need to act as therapists, but with knowledge, empathy, and trauma-informed strategies they can create stability and improve student outcomes. Research shows trauma-informed approaches enhance emotional regulation and academic engagement.

Read at Psychology Today