Early Childhood Educator Series: Understanding Trauma and Creating Trauma-Transformed Early Childhood Settings Sylvia Kennedy-Godin January 15, 2020

Part One: Understanding Trauma in Early Childhood Settings A growing body of neuroscience research shows that, for children with trauma crucial support and interventions before the age of 3 yield the best potential outcomes. Early childhood professionals are currently challenged to incorporate this knowledge, as well as effective practices, into their work with children and families. This workshop will provide participants with: • Definitions and basic concepts of developmental, chronic and acute trauma, as well as the neurobiology of stress; • An overview of current research on the N.E.A.R. sciences (neuroscience, epigenetics, adverse childhood experiences, and resiliency); • An increased understanding of how attachment theory and co-regulation practices can positively affect behavior; • Exploration of multi-modal interventions, including body, movement, music and play-based practices; • Opportunities to reflect on their own and their workplace’s trauma-informed/ trauma transformed practice, including addressing self-care, burnout and compassion fatigue; and • Ways to apply Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES) to support work with parents/caregivers.