How Children Respond to Stress and Trauma
This resource helps families and Head Start staff understand the effects of stress and trauma, so children can get the support and care they need to cope.
Head Start programs support the mental health of children, families, and staff every day. Early childhood mental health is the same as social and emotional well-being. It is a child’s developing capacity to express and regulate emotions, form trusting relationships, explore, and learn—all in the cultural context of family and community. The mental health of children and the adults that care for them is essential for school readiness.
This resource helps families and Head Start staff understand the effects of stress and trauma, so children can get the support and care they need to cope.
After a disaster or crisis, children benefit when adults assure them that they are safe and help them learn how to cope effectively. In this tip sheet, learn what to do to help a child after a disaster or crisis.