Buzzwords like trauma-informed practice and trauma-informed teaching are increasingly common when discussing what’s important in today’s classroom.

But just how common is student trauma and why does it matter at school?

One study found that 60% of adults have experienced abuse or other difficult family circumstances during childhood and 26% of kids in the US will encounter a traumatic experience before the age of four.

Teachers and schools need to be aware of trauma because children who have experienced a traumatic event have an increased risk for academic, social, and emotional problems.

Addressing mental health issues in the classroom helps teachers better accommodate and support students affected by trauma.

However, to address this vital issue, teachers and schools must genuinely understand it, explore evidence-based solutions, and implement best practices.