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Supporting Students After Trauma

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Lesson Plan

Supporting Students After Trauma

Support students after witnessing trauma

This lesson aims to provide middle school students with a supportive environment to process emotions after witnessing a traumatic event. It incorporates trauma-informed teaching strategies to help students feel safe and understood. The lesson includes a brief discussion, a reading, and a video to introduce coping mechanisms and emotional management.

Audience

Middle School Students

Time

10 minutes

Approach

Trauma-Informed Teaching

Materials

Discussion Questions, Reading: Understanding Trauma, and Video: Managing Feelings & Emotions For Elementary-Middle School

Step 1

Introduction

1 minute

  • Briefly introduce the purpose of the session: to provide support and understanding after a traumatic event.
  • Emphasize the importance of a safe and supportive environment.

Step 2

Discussion

3 minutes

  • Use the Discussion Questions to guide a short conversation about feelings and emotions.
  • Encourage students to share their thoughts and feelings in a safe space.

Step 3

Reading

2 minutes

  • Distribute the Reading: Understanding Trauma handout.
  • Allow students a moment to read quietly.
  • Highlight key points about trauma and emotional responses.

Step 4

Video Viewing

3 minutes

Step 5

Closure

1 minute

  • Summarize the key points discussed and viewed.
  • Reassure students that it's okay to feel a range of emotions and that support is available.
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Discussion

Discussion Questions: Trauma Support

A set of questions to facilitate a supportive discussion about emotions and coping after a traumatic event.

How are you feeling today?

Encourage students to express their emotions openly and validate their feelings.







What are some ways you cope with difficult emotions?

Guide students to think about healthy coping mechanisms they can use.







Why is it important to talk about our feelings?

Discuss the benefits of sharing emotions and seeking support.







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Reading

Reading: Understanding Trauma

A detailed reading to help students understand trauma, its causes, effects, and coping strategies.

Understanding Trauma

Trauma can be a difficult experience that affects our emotions and thoughts. It's important to know that feeling upset, scared, or confused is normal. Everyone reacts differently to trauma, and there are healthy ways to cope with these feelings.

Causes of Trauma
Trauma can result from various events such as accidents, natural disasters, or witnessing violence. Each person's experience is unique, and what might be traumatic for one person may not be for another.

Effects of Trauma
Trauma can lead to a range of emotional responses, including anxiety, sadness, or anger. It can also affect concentration and sleep patterns. Understanding these effects can help in managing them better.

Coping Strategies

  • Talk to Someone You Trust: Sharing your feelings with a trusted friend or adult can provide relief and support.
  • Practice Relaxation Techniques: Activities like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help calm your mind.
  • Engage in Enjoyable Activities: Doing things you love, such as drawing, playing sports, or listening to music, can be therapeutic.
  • Seek Professional Help: Sometimes, talking to a counselor or therapist can be beneficial in processing trauma.

Remember, it's okay to seek help and take time to heal. Support is always available.

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Supporting Students After Trauma • Lenny Learning