IMPORTANT GUIDELINES FOR USING THIS MODULE

We asked psychologists to provide important guidelines when using this module.

These are their recommendations to educators and child-serving professionals.

WE DO NOT ENCOURAGE …

• Disclosures from students throughout these modules- that’s therapy and out of an educator’s scope.

WE DO ENCOURAGE EDUCATORS AND CHILD-SERVING PROFESSIONALS TO …

• Be aware of what we mean by the term ‘trauma-informed’ within the scope of these modules, meaning you can realize that trauma exists, acknowledge that it can be a very real stressor for some students, and create a safer space by listening and being non-judgmental, but that it is not the educator’s job to intervene. Another term you may wish to use if it helps is a ‘mentally-healthy approach.’
• Seek guidance from mental health staff at their school or organization about how the school or organization should support the student if they disclose something in the classroom.
• Seek guidance from their schools and/or mental health staff if they have specific questions related to school policies and procedures for parent/caregiver communication about some of these modules.
• Clarify with their students that the safer spaces guidelines they create in their classroom might not necessarily apply outside of the classroom to prevent students from being misled into thinking they do.
• Acknowledge—through listening and empathy—that there is a diverse range of stressors and stress responses that students can encounter.

Disclaimer: The content contained in these modules is meant to enhance the implementation of the activities in Kids Have Stress Too! and Stress Lessons and is not intended as instructions for intervention or therapy.  If you are concerned about the well-being of your students or the children and youth you work with please talk to the mental health support staff at your school for additional guidance.