Hi there,
I work in a school and am a counselor. Some of the students that I work with have high ACE scores. Here are some things that I do. I am not sure if it will help or not.
1. I don't consider the ACE scores. Yes, they may be high but what I have noticed is that these strategies are great for all kids. So many kids and even adults don't know how to self-regulate.
2. For safety, all you need to do is give them space if they need it and be available to them. I will often ask, "What do you need right now." Even smaller kids usually know. Sometimes it might be a granola bar or water. Other times they may need space. I don't leave the room. I have fidgets, therapy putty, coloring books, word searches and the like to help them calm down so we can talk. I also do deep breathing exercises with them if they are struggling to breathe when they calm in. Breathing is a go-to for me because they do so well by focusing on their breath.
For other ideas on co-regulation and self-regulation, here is the resource that I use and recommend:
https://store.starr.org/Course...otional-regulation-1
3. Consider quick interventions. I work with them if and when they are ready. I listen to their narrative and see if there may be a trauma theme. Sometimes there is, sometimes there isn't. Here is a resource for quick interventions; these can be used in the classroom even.
https://store.starr.org/Course...auma-interventions-1
I started out with the above binder but find that I like this one more:
https://store.starr.org/Course...ldren--adolescents-1
4. As far as training staff, there are several resources and several companies that will come in and train. I am willing to come in and train; I train clinicians and educators on trauma-informed and resilience strategies. Let me know. There may be other places mentioned in the other posts. You just have to choose the company/person that fits your organization best.
Feel free to email me if you have any questions about the strategies, etc. I am more than happy to help if I can. I love what I do!
fryppd@gmail.com
I have attached photos of some of the resources I use. PS. I also attached a self-care plan for YOU because you need to take care of yourself to keep doing what you do! Don't forget how important you are to the process!
