Early Childhood
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Ready to Learn Through Relationships Program (RLR-Program), is a trauma-informed, developmentally attuned program for use in preschool settings and was developed by Center for Childhood Resilience. In 2024, CCR entered the fourth year of a five-year National Office of Head Start (OHS) funded effort to establish the National Center on Health, Behavioral Health and Safety (NCHBHS), one of five centers supporting children and families across the entire OHS network. We provide training and technical assistance and lead the “Innovations Project” in partnership with Georgetown University to promote effective trauma-informed care practices.
Our intention is to support early childhood educators to develop spaces and practices that will meet the social and emotional needs of all preschoolers, particularly those who have been exposed to trauma. Please visit the early childhood page for more information.
COURSE
Brain Development and Traumatic Exposure
This course explores the critical stages of brain development in early childhood and the profound impact of traumatic experiences on a child’s cognitive, emotional, and social growth. Participants will gain insight into how early trauma influences brain structure and function, as well as strategies for fostering resilience and recovery. Through evidence-based research and practical applications, this course equips educators, caregivers, and professionals with the knowledge and tools to support healthy development and mitigate the long-term effects of trauma.
COURSE
Creating Trauma-Informed Settings and Communities
This course introduces the core components of creating trauma-informed early childhood settings, providing strategies to support young children affected by trauma. Participants will gain insights into fostering safe, nurturing, and responsive environments that promote healing and resilience.
COURSE
Healing-Centered Learning Environments
This course examines the principles of healing-centered practices in early childhood education, emphasizing the importance of creating safe, supportive, and nurturing environments. Participants will learn strategies to address the needs of children who have experienced trauma, fostering emotional well-being and resilience. The course provides practical tools to build connections, integrate social-emotional learning, and promote a sense of belonging, empowering educators and caregivers to support holistic growth and recovery in young learners.
COURSE
Introduction to Trauma in Early Childhood
This course explores the foundational concepts of trauma and its impact on students, their learning, and behavior, with insights that extend to out-of-school settings like early childhood programs and afterschool organizations. Participants will learn to recognize symptoms of trauma, adopt a “trauma lens,” and understand the importance of self-care and collective care for staff working in trauma-exposed environments.
COURSE
Providing a Culturally and Racially Sensitive Framework
This course explores the foundational concepts of trauma and its impact on students, their learning, and behavior, with insights that extend to out-of-school settings like early childhood programs and afterschool organizations. Participants will learn to recognize symptoms of trauma, adopt a “trauma lens,” and understand the importance of self-care and collective care for staff working in trauma-exposed environments.
FRAMEWORK
Ready to Learn Through Relationships: A Trauma-Informed Framework for Early Childhood Educators
This framework is designed to help early childhood educators understand the impact of trauma exposure on preschool-aged children.
TOOLKIT
Ready to Learn Through Relationships:
A Trauma-Informed Toolkit for Early Childhood Educators
This toolkit is designed to expand on the content of the RLR Framework to provide trauma-informed classroom strategies and activities.
COURSE
Supporting and Teaching Emotion Regulation
In this course, you’ll explore the concept of emotional intelligence and its significance in personal and professional growth. You’ll also gain practical strategies to enhance your emotional intelligence by developing both personal and social competencies.
COURSE
Trauma in Context
This course broadens the trauma-informed perspective by examining the intersection of trauma, racism, and inequity and their profound impact on children and families. Participants will deepen their understanding of how experiences of racism and marginalization shape children’s development and well-being. The course also provides practical strategies to address these issues, helping you reflect on their implications for your role and work.
COURSE
Trauma-Informed Care in Early Childhood Settings
This course provides an in-depth understanding of trauma-informed care and its application in early childhood settings. Participants will explore the impact of trauma on young children’s development and behavior, as well as strategies for recognizing signs of trauma. The course emphasizes building strong, supportive relationships and creating environments that promote safety, trust, and emotional well-being. Through practical tools and insights, educators and caregivers will learn to support healing, resilience, and positive outcomes for young children affected by trauma.
COURSE
The Trauma Lens
This course focuses on adopting a trauma lens to better understand and support children affected by trauma. Participants will explore the principles of trauma-informed care, including recognizing its impact on young children and strategies to address it effectively. The course also highlights the importance of self-care and awareness of secondary trauma for adults working closely with trauma-exposed children.