Models of ECE Trauma-Informed Interventions

There are several models of trauma-informed care being implemented by ECE centers across the country, many of which attempt to integrate evidence-based practices into their institutional culture of trauma-informed work. There are a variety of ECE programs, including HeadStart, state-funded preschool programs, and pre-k classrooms attached to public and private school districts.  It is first important to note that ECE programs in general provide some benefits to children who have experienced trauma. Research suggests that children involved in the welfare system and who attended ECE had better language skills than those who did not attend ECE. Additionally, among maltreated children in an ECE program that was accredited, they had higher school readiness than those who attended a non-accredited ECE program. Although ECE alone is beneficial, it is not enough to properly identify and address trauma in children. Therefore, ECE evidence-based trauma-informed models must be accessible and implemented widely to buffer against childhood trauma and provide enriching environments for all students.¹ Trauma Smart and Let's Connect are both trauma-based intervention models that have been successfully implemented in ECE centers.