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

Slide Deck
What is Trauma?
How the Brain Responds
The Amygdala: Our Alarm
The Prefrontal Cortex
Physical Signs of Stress
Coping Reminders

Warm Up


Activity


Cool Down

