Edith Geurts
Augeo
I work at Augeo since 2011 as content expert / adviser on child abuse, domestic violence and trauma-informed work. I was involved in the development of several online courses on tackling child abuse and neglect and I'm chief editor of our online magazine (www.augeomagazine.nl). I work in several innovative projects, all focused on creating a safe home and school for children.
I studied social sciences at Utrecht University and worked about eleven years at the Dutch Youth Institute (NJi) in all kind of projects on child abuse and neglect. I published many articles on the subjects child abuse and neglect, children exposed to domestic violence, parental divorce, trauma-informed teaching etc.
ACEs are common: 64% of Americans and 44% of the Dutch population have experienced at least one adverse childhood experience (ACE) (Felitti et al 1998, TNO 2010). Longitudinal research has shown a strong relationship between ACEs and psychological and physical health. Moreover, we know that the more ACEs someone experienced, the greater the likelihood of risky behaviour and diseases (Felitti et al 1998).
The damage caused by ACEs is not inevitable. Research shows that support from a trusted adult can counterbalance the effects of prolonged stress (Shonkoff 2004, Bernard 2004, Bath 2008). Teachers in particular can play a role in this; children spent several days a week at school, which gives teachers an opportunity to build trusting relationships with pupils. By providing security and stability, teachers help children to relax and reinforce their natural resilience (Cole, et al 2005, Downey 2007, Wolpow et al 2009). This helps prevent adverse effects, in both the short term and long term.
A trauma-informed approach means that teachers are aware that many of the children in their classes have experienced ACEs. Teachers must also understand that inappropriate behaviour may arise as a result of feelings of insecurity and stress, and that they are in a position to help children lower their levels of stress so that children can at least feel safe during school hours.
The symposium entitled ‘Trauma-informed work’ consists of four presentations. First, we present the results of the Dutch ACE study of 11-year-old and 12-year-old children. We then look at the online course titled ‘Trauma-informed teaching’, and the results of the study on its effectiveness. This is followed by an analysis of Operation Encompass, a successful collaboration between schools and police in cases of domestic violence. Finally, young coaches show how they provide training on the effects of divorce on children.
