The Trauma-Informed Teacher Tip Guide
Practical Classroom Strategies for Supporting Students Impacted by Trauma
Developed by Becky Haas in partnership with the Ohio Association of County Behavioral Health Authorities (OACBHA), The Trauma-Informed Teacher Tip Guide provides educators with accessible strategies for creating supportive, trauma-informed classrooms. The guide explains key concepts such as Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), survival versus willful behaviors, and the “upstairs/downstairs brain” framework for understanding emotional regulation. It equips teachers with specific tools for helping students move from dysregulation to calm, including regulation exercises, connection strategies, and opportunities for reasoning and problem-solving. With practical tips like mindful coloring, positive reinforcement, and structured check-ins, the guide emphasizes building safety, trust, and connection in the classroom. This resource is designed to help educators identify trauma-related behaviors and respond with empathy and effectiveness, ultimately strengthening resilience and learning for students.
Resource Type: PDF
Developers
Developed by Becky Haas in partnership with the Ohio Association of County Behavioral Health Authorities (OACBHA)