Creating Trauma-Informed Classrooms: A Compassionate Approach to Supporting Students and Educators

This transformative guide empowers educators to create a compassionate and nurturing environment for students impacted by trauma, presenting teachers with the knowledge and practical strategies to support their students' emotional well-being and academic success. Understanding the effects of trauma on students' learning and behaviour is essential. To achieve this, this book places emphasis on empathy, understanding, and resilience as the cornerstones of trauma-informed care. The chapters show educators how to promote emotional regulation, foster resilience, and celebrate students' unique strengths. From building positive teacher-student relationships to implementing mindfulness practices and restorative techniques, the author provides practical tools and reflective exercises to create an inclusive and safe classroom environment. Through heart-warming stories and expert insights, teachers can gain a deeper understanding of their students' experiences, enabling them to respond with compassion and sensitivity. The book also encourages reflective practice and collaboration with families and communities, ensuring educators receive ongoing support in their journey to provide trauma-informed care. Whether a seasoned educator or a new teacher, this handbook equips educators to make a profound difference in their students' lives and ensures that all students feel seen and valued in the classroom.

Table of Contents:
Introduction 1. The Foundations of Trauma-Informed Care 2. Impact of Trauma on Learning and Behaviour 3. Creating Emotional Safety and Positive Teacher-Student Relationships 4. Cultivating Empathy, Compassion, and Self-Care in Teachers 5. Establishing a Supportive School Culture 6. Identifying and Addressing Signs of Trauma in Students 7. Trauma-Informed Communication and Crisis Intervention 8. Adapting the Curriculum and Instruction for Trauma Sensitivity 9. Fostering Emotional Regulation and Resilience in Students 10. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques in the Classroom 11. Peer Support, Social Connections, and Restorative Practices 12. Integrating Indigenous Perspectives and Understanding Intergenerational Trauma 13. Trauma-Informed Professional Development and Reflective Practice Conclusion: A Compassionate Commitment to Change Index

About the Author :
Glenys Oberg is a lecturer in the School of Education at the University of Queensland, Australia, and an experienced teacher educator specialising in trauma-informed practice. She holds a PhD in Education and works closely with schools to promote compassionate, research-informed approaches to student well-being.

Review :
"It is my pleasure to endorse and recommend to you: Creating Trauma-Informed Classrooms: A Compassionate Approach to Supporting Students and Educators. In this book, Glenys Oberg provides a well-researched, yet extremely practical, educator resource for teachers and student support personnel working with trauma-impacted children and young people. Supported by case studies and ideas for practical strategies, this book will be equally as helpful for pre-service teachers during their studies and practicums. A wonderful and helpful contribution to the growing evidence and resource base for trauma-informed education." Dr Judith Howard, Associate Professor, Queensland University of Technology, Australia; Author of Trauma-aware education: Essential information and guidance for educators, education sites and education systems. "As a Clinical Psychologist with over 25 years’ experience, I have worked alongside teachers navigating the unseen weight of trauma in classrooms. This powerful book offers not only understanding but practical, compassionate tools grounded in neuroscience and lived school experience. It validates the emotional labour of teaching while guiding educators toward sustainable, trauma-informed practice. A must-read for anyone committed to creating safe, healing spaces for both students and staff." Dr Rita Princi-Hubbard, PhD, M.Psych(Clin), B.Psych(Hons), MAPS, FCCLP; Australia "I am pleased to offer my enthusiastic recommendation for Glenys’s work, Creating Trauma-Informed Classrooms: A Compassionate Approach to Supporting Students and Educators. In this insightful book, Glenys provides a clear and comprehensive overview of the research on trauma and its impact on learners in school settings. Through the thoughtful use of case studies, she effectively bridges the gap between theory and the practical implementation of trauma-informed care in schools. Most importantly, the book highlights the critical importance of creating emotional safety for students by fostering a school environment that not only understands trauma but responds to it with compassion and intention." Dr Rachel Leslie, Academic, teacher, and Guidance Officer; University of Southern Queensland, Australia