OUR TRAUMA - INFORMED APPROACH
We believe that to be able to address the myriad of needs and challenges of these children, service providers must take a trauma-informed approach. This means having a clear understanding of how trauma impacts children and families and creating environments and tailoring services based on that understanding. We know that in order to provide responsive, comprehensive, trauma-informed services, the following fundamentals must be in place.
Hover over each block to learn more about our fundamentals.
A Safe and Predictable Environment
Above all, the environment is safe and predictable. For children, this means that they are treated in a consistent and loving manner, and that regardless of their behavior, their needs will be met. For parents, this means that they have confidence in program staff to meet their children’s needs.
Children and Families Have
Choice and Influence
For children, this means that, within their capacity, they have ample opportunities to make choices and influence decisions about their day. For parents, many of whom have been thoroughly disenfranchised by homelessness, domestic violence, and inter-generational poverty, this means that they are knowledgeable consumers and understand their rights and responsibilities within the program.
Children and Families are
Treated With Respect
For children, this means that caregivers get to know each child as an individual, understand their cues, and engage with them accordingly. For parents, this means that caregivers seek an active relationship; one that acknowledges that they are central to their children’s lives and that they know them best.
Caregivers Understand That Behavior
Can be a Response to Trauma
For both children and parents, this means knowing that behaviors that seem unhealthy or ineffective today may have helped in coping with trauma in the past. Therefore, helping children and parents learn new coping skills is paramount.
