Lesson Plan

Trauma in the Classroom Outline

Students will explore how trauma influences behavior and learning by identifying brain‐body responses, mapping flashback triggers, practicing an emotion body scan, and engaging in mindful breathing to foster empathy and a safer classroom environment.

This lesson builds trauma awareness and empathy, helping students recognize stress responses in themselves and peers. A trauma‐informed classroom reduces stigma, strengthens relationships, and supports all learners’ well‐being.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Teacher Preparation

10 minutes

Step 1

Warm-Up: Flashback Mapping

5 minutes

Step 2

Introduction & Brain-Body Discussion

10 minutes

Step 3

Activity: Emotion Body Scan

10 minutes

Step 4

Group Debrief & Empathy Building

10 minutes

Step 5

Cool-Down: Mindful Breathing Moment

10 minutes

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Slide Deck

What is Trauma?

How the Brain Responds

The Amygdala: Our Alarm

The Prefrontal Cortex

Physical Signs of Stress

Coping Reminders

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Warm Up

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Activity

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Cool Down

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How Does Trauma Shape Us?

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