Trauma: Teaching Kids All About Trauma

by Robert Edelman EdS

How trauma affects our thoughts, feelings and behavior are discussed to help children recognize and express how they might have, or might be, affected by stressful events in their lives. Ways of coping with trauma are suggested as well as the message that kids are survivors and can overcome things that might have been traumatic in their lives. 

The book includes vivid illustrations, keywords, simple explanations, open-ended questions as well as a fun “Can you spot it?” game throughout the book to keep children engaged and refocus if they become distracted or anxious due to the nature of the topic being discussed. Review questions, a word search as well as useful on-line resources are also provided. 

NOTE: This book contains some real-life illustrations of traumatic events which could be triggering for children who might have experienced a recent or unresolved trauma. It should be read with a responsible adult and is designed to educate and facilitate open discussions about trauma between children and counselors, therapists, social service staff, etc. as well as conscientious parents/caregivers.