Working with Relational Trauma in Schools

How educators can help children who have experienced developmental trauma to thrive in an education setting

Experienced clinicians show how educators can easily use a proven psychological model to help pupils who have experienced relational trauma. Contains everything required to embed it into teaching practice, including building connections with students and teachers, exploration of the theory, and practical applications.

Written by experienced clinicians, this book provides an exploration of how educators can easily use Dyadic Developmental Practice (DDP) to help vulnerable pupils to thrive.

DDP is an intervention model for children and young people who have experienced trauma in past relationships. Safety and security is increased through offering emotional connection in a variety of ways, helped by the attitude of PACE (playfulness, acceptance, curiosity and empathy). The model gives children the opportunity to experience the relationships necessary for healthy development, emotional regulation and resilience.

This book gives educators all the tools they need to embed DDP into their practice, including building connections with students, partnerships with parents, understanding the theory behind DDP, and overcoming the challenges of implementing it in practice. These principles can be adapted to support pupils at all levels.