Social Emotional Learning and Trauma Informed Practices for Paraeducators

“To feel safe and to feel seen. To feel valued and capable of growth. These are simple concepts—basic pillars of student achievement and the results of good pedagogy. Working to implement trauma-informed SEL is an approach to fostering youths’ social-emotional development with practices that support all students’ but is particularly inclusive and responsive to the needs of children and youth who have experienced trauma and adversity. This approach calls for creating reliable learning environments where students who have experienced adversities and trauma where students:

-Feel supported and connected;

-Are welcome to explore their strengths and identities;

-Can exercise their agency;

-Can develop meaningful, positive relationships with adults and

peers; and

-Have access to the mental health supports they need.