#1stchat Archive
Weekly chat for excited 1st grade teachers who love to learn and share ideas. Participants are interested in a variety of topics including literacy, math, technology, play, inquiry, and being the best educators they can be!
Sunday January 24, 2016
hello everyone Leka from Iowa excited to chat with tonight!
Traci from KS, happy Sunday!!
Hello . I am very excited about this topic. Thanks for having me
Hello! Andrea from Kansas - first timer to
Hi Megan, glad to see you.
Hi ! Nancy from Iowa joining tonight.
hi Megan! Glad to see you!
Welcome ! It's a great chat!
hi Traci. Hope you had a good weekend!
Hi Lori, we are excited for tonight's topic!
hi Andrea! Great to see you!
you too! Chilly here in Florida, but I know not as bad as up there lol
Excited to have you as a guest moderator! https://t.co/HiPcEfkH58
Hello . I am very excited about this topic. Thanks for having me
This is my first chat as well. Hello everyone
Hello! Jen here from TX. Excited that is tonight's guest.
glad to be here! Thanks! :)
This is a topic I feel very strongly about. I am blessed that our district has embraced trauma sensitive care.
Hi Nancy, glad you are joining in.
yay Nancy! Great to see you here
Hi Jen. So glad you're here.
Excited to be here with at the wheel at
hi Erin! Welcome to the best PLN:)
Hi all! Sara from WI checking in. Doing some multitasking tonight but excited to chat too!
Welcome, we love first timers!
YAY!!! Terry so happy you're here. I know you will have great input.
hi Jen! How are you tonight?
RT This is a topic I feel very strongly about. I am blessed that our district has embraced trauma sensitive care.
Thanks! Good to be here. Not really sure what all do expect
me, too! I've been multi-tasking a lot lately! :)
we had a little training on trauma care this year and it is so important and fascinating.
hi Terry! Hope you had a good weekend!
Don't forget to follow so you can see the questions as they are tweeted.
Lori from Oklahoma. 1st time here.
hi Sara. Good to see you:)
doing well. We've had a beautiful weekend here in TX. Sunny & in the low 50s.
We'll be using the Q1 and A1 format as usual.
Hi Leka. I did. I hope you did as well.
Tis the season with report cards, Ed Effectiveness reflections and winter assessments.
follow the hashtag or for questions!
Welcome, Lori. So glad you are here.
absolutely. Our report cards went home Fri. as well as DRA & PAPI reports. Lots of assessment done. Yay!
Awesome to have so many first-timers here tonight! You'll love this PLN!
hi Patricia. Glad to see you!
The Great Kindness Challenge starts Monday. Anybody joining in?
Michelle from WI joining in.
Do you have a link you can share?
The Ed Camp Global Classroom is going on this week as well. Anyone involved in that?
do you have more info on that?
I just registered. Looking forward to checking it out.
Hi Michelle, glad you are here.
Q1: What does trauma informed care mean to you?
Sounds like my life:) Always multitasking;0
RT Q1: What does trauma informed care mean to you?
Remembered this week;) Hope you had a great week!
A1: I've never heard that term, so I'm really unsure
A1: I am not familiar with it, but just learned a bit from the news article that shared from your classroom.
A1: We don't realize it, but most kids are dealing with some type of trauma. We need to have strategies of awareness and care.
A1 Read the article, but a definition may be helpful.
A1: I'm not familiar with it, but excited to learn more.
Yes. Exactly. https://t.co/5ZLbWN6b1m
A1: We don't realize it, but most kids are dealing with some type of trauma. We need to have strategies of awareness and care.
A1: Hadn't heard that term until reading the article that was featured in.
The link says "this post can't be found." I'd love to join!
A1: New to me, interested in learning more, I guess I see it as thinking of whole child & their life in and out of school
I have never heard the term. Once I had looked it up, I began to think of students this info may be able to help me with.
A1: Implementing best practices for working with Ss who have been exposed to trauma.
A1 the first time I heard about the term was when I read your article although I was familiar with the concept. Ready 2 learn more
A1 Students need support in area of social/emotional well-being too.
Just now joining in- hi everyone
A1: Learning how to recognize Ss in trauma by actions or in-actions and helping build resilience.
A1- we have many Ss that have experienced trauma & we work to support them in all ways we can. Don't have specific trng thought
A1: Best practices include benefits for all Ss not just those exposed to trauma.
A1: I haven't heard of it but excited to learn
Hi Jacki, glad you are here.
with my class of course! Please join us! o
A1: Ss have "bad days" too..t's important for us as teachers to realize that they might be something else going on in their life.
Seems to me that a lot of it is proactive rather than reactive.
Our district provides 1/2 day PDs as well as email blasts about recognizing and helping Ss in trauma.
this will be lots of fun!!
Exactly. Catching the Ss early BEFORE there is a need to act out or shut down.
what time zone? I dont' see that on page.
A1 We spend a lot of time connecting with students and getting to know them. We learn more about how to support them that way.
RT RT : A1: Learning how to recognize Ss in trauma by actions or in-actions and helping build resilience.
You must have snuck in the back door. *hi*
Relationships are key. Our Ss have to trust us before they will let us in.
What state are you in? Haven't heard this term at all, but after reading the articlerelates to what we are talking about
I think connections with kiddos is a HUGE part of helping them. Find the little things if needed- interests, sports, etc
RT Relationships are key. Our Ss have to trust us before they will let us in.
Here is a link to a podcast from one of the Trauma sensitive school trainers. It's long but well worth it.
https://t.co/JXYrawsee2
I try looking for patterns in their behavior. Plan how to prevent & avoid conflicts.
Q2: How can you recognize a student that may be in trauma?
We have to support our students emotionally and physically to have a greater impact academically
RT Q2: How can you recognize a student that may be in trauma?
A2: Sometimes it is very subtle. Other times it is obvious. Knowing our children, their families and their background is key.
Absolutely. If our Ss come to us and feel safe and loved, the academics will come naturally.
A2- withdrawl, anxiety, attention seeking, acting out. Seems the pendulum can swing from one end to the other depending on the S.
A2 meltdowns, refusal to cooperate, disconnect, may act out or be very withdrawn
A1: Many Ss who have experienced trauma are misdiagnosed with ADHD. Lots of overlap of symptoms.
A2:withdrawn, acting out, change in behavior
A2: extreme behavior either avoidance or attention seeking
A2 It may be negative attention seeking, lack of engagement, so many things.
A2: Student is displaying abnormal behavior (tears for what seems like no reason at all) or other strange behaviors.
RT Absolutely. If our Ss come to us and feel safe and loved, the academics will come naturally.
That's the tricky part. Sometimes the quiet S that is the one in trauma. Looks different for each S
https://t.co/d6PDXFBPF4
A2: Sometimes it is very subtle. Other times it is obvious. Knowing our children, their families and their background is key.
A2: outbursts, unusual behavior, seeking attention, withdrawn -- could be very different from S to S
A2: I think making sure our Ss know that our doors are always open helps for those that need to talk about it with some1 they trust
Exactly. There's no checklist. It goes back to relationships. https://t.co/Uadab0oYee
A2- withdrawl, anxiety, attention seeking, acting out. Seems the pendulum can swing from one end to the other depending on the S.
A2; Yes, it can be your Ss who is quiet and very focused on tasks, trying to be a pleaser.
lack of interest in school, their basic emotional needs have to be met before they can learn.
lack of interest in school, their basic emotional needs have to be met before they can learn.
Absolutely! Taking time to build those valuable, trusting relationships.
A2: Always look for behave change. The change is a signal to pay attention to what might be happening.
Good point https://t.co/RuvT9XkIaJ
A2; Yes, it can be your Ss who is quiet and very focused on tasks, trying to be a pleaser.
A2: Trauma is a multiple of things and the reaction can also show up in a multitude of ways.
Unfortunately school can be the traumatic place for Ss. Lack of friends, bully, etc.
A2 Seems that usually they are seeking control through their behavior because often they have no control over home-life.
Agreed. Also, we need 2 reach out to them 1st & sometimes more than once. Not all will use open door. https://t.co/JDoUwJjfnw
A2: I think making sure our Ss know that our doors are always open helps for those that need to talk about it with some1 they trust
Good point. Don't assume it's always from home. https://t.co/cAErTvUpVe
Unfortunately school can be the traumatic place for Ss. Lack of friends, bully, etc.
Very true. Depends on the S and sometimes the situation. https://t.co/76RRoaGVFN
Agreed. Also, we need 2 reach out to them 1st & sometimes more than once. Not all will use open door. https://t.co/JDoUwJjfnw
A2: I think making sure our Ss know that our doors are always open helps for those that need to talk about it with some1 they trust
If a Ss is showing extreme signs, I will refer to a counselor.
A2 getting to know our ss will be the key. My "LISTEN" to each child!
follow she is guest moderating tonight
A2 I spent the first 3 months of school building deep relationships & teaching selfregulation and now it's paying off.
For sure! School Counselors have many resources and referrals for traumatized students. https://t.co/bLy5hpa35g
If a Ss is showing extreme signs, I will refer to a counselor.
Relationships and a safe classroom is the top priority! https://t.co/ngBFSXRuaC
A2 getting to know our ss will be the key. My "LISTEN" to each child!
RT Relationships and a safe classroom is the top priority! https://t.co/XPW5xTIhVw
A2 getting to know our ss will be the key. My "LISTEN" to each child!
Have to leave early tonight due to a Skype date with my sister who is in the military. See you all next week!
A2: Yes an environment that feels safe, supported and Ss feel encouraged can always be a help.
I believe in treating my students they way I treat my own kids. I want them to feel loved and accepted building trust.
Q3: What impact can trauma have on student learning?
A2: relationships most definitely
A2 We have team of teachers that connect with kids in classrooms prior to school breaks & upon return from them. Huge + difference!
RT Q3: What impact can trauma have on student learning?
A3: when ss have outside trauma, academics don't matter to them, it's not important
A3 Students have very difficult time learning if social/emotional needs are unmet.
A3: If Ss are traumatized, they are not ready to learn. You have to deal with the trauma first, or that is all they think about.
A3: Unengaged, disinterested, off task...or they can be the pleaser. They may be a loner, quiet, or be the one seeking attention.
A3: Depending on what the trauma is... students may fixate on the trauma and have difficulty with daily tasks.
It's hard to learn when your worried about what's going to happen next. https://t.co/pDA2wzKgWf
A3: when ss have outside trauma, academics don't matter to them, it's not important
A3; Could be fearful of risks as well.
A3 behavior impedes learning. Ex: meltdown=missed instruction=missed concepts... Also distraction to other students
A3: Survival mode trumps academics every time.
RT It's hard to learn when your worried about what's going to happen next. https://t.co/JGd70DhLQx
A3: when ss have outside trauma, academics don't matter to them, it's not important
I totally agree!! https://t.co/TSlMdBwrAW
A3 Students have very difficult time learning if social/emotional needs are unmet.
YES & adding to the stress is not going to make things better, listening, caring, & helping will. https://t.co/Aj8KACEzTx
It's hard to learn when your worried about what's going to happen next. https://t.co/pDA2wzKgWf
A3: when ss have outside trauma, academics don't matter to them, it's not important
what a wonderful idea..such a nice way to let those Ss know they are loved and are connected with someone.. will try it
A3 The need for safety, physical or emotional, trumps everything else.
Agreed- Had S w/ MAJOR trauma in k/1- ended up Spec Ed in 2nd. Now in 5th & at grade level https://t.co/MnUqINAYta
A3: If Ss are traumatized, they are not ready to learn. You have to deal with the trauma first, or that is all they think about.
Those melts downs can also isolate that S from peers. That is why it is important to be proactive. Save dignity.
Yes, my thoughts exactly!
RT Those melts downs can also isolate that S from peers. That is why it is important to be proactive. Save dignity.
I've seen what those melt downs can do to peer relationships…It's very sad.
Been there. It's important for Ts to have a back up adult as well.
A3 it really makes me think about my role in those children's life...
When I had a Ss w/melt downs we had a class meeting about how adults were there to help and ppl were taking care of S
It can be overwhelming at times, when we might be their only safe place and love for the day https://t.co/DIri86V497
A3 it really makes me think about my role in those children's life...
We really serve a huge role in the lives of children. So much to think about. https://t.co/Jf2PxYEXcT
A3 it really makes me think about my role in those children's life...
A3 It is so important that they know teachers care. We have to show them we care even during their difficult days.
I think we need to be aware of their triggers as well. We need to avoid those triggers.
I always think I'm w/that S 7 hrs a day. They are in that body 24/7. I can do all I can for that S
Q4: How can you help a student in trauma?
Agree-Important 2 reassure other Ss-our #1 job is 2 keep everyone safe. Ss worry about peers.Reassures them https://t.co/6NTb1AUWQb
When I had a Ss w/melt downs we had a class meeting about how adults were there to help and ppl were taking care of S
We also found that it was important to maintain privacy & dignity by not discussing students in front of peers.
YES! Proactive again. https://t.co/N8e03PjWim
I think we need to be aware of their triggers as well. We need to avoid those triggers.
RT Q4: How can you help a student in trauma?
RT I think we need to be aware of their triggers as well. We need to avoid those triggers.
Looking forward to reading. I have a few Ss who have a hard time with self regulation.
A4: Give them the space they need, time they need. Be there, be present and be ready. Realize their emotion/social is important.
Yes!! I really focus on the triggers with my ss not their behavior. together plan ways to how to react. https://t.co/J7jHvfyzt9
I think we need to be aware of their triggers as well. We need to avoid those triggers.
A4: Create a Calm Corner for all Ss with calming activities. Need a break? Visit the calm corner, no questions asked.
Q4 Making sure we are aware of triggers is important as Bat indicated earlier.
A4: If they need to walk around, stand, move, rock, fidget, It's okay. We also provide breaks.
A4: Consult with your school counselor for age appropriate resources.
thank you for posting.....I look forward to reading this article.....it sounds like something we all need to read.
A4: Using tools such as literature and writing to communicate with them and break the ice.
I have our counselor come in and give me feedback. She can see things I can't when I'm teaching https://t.co/0NQrVBfM3C
A4: Consult with your school counselor for age appropriate resources.
A4 work on recognizing triggers and emotional change. Teach how to avoid or react to triggers. https://t.co/BCntPdh2Jg
Q4 Making sure we are aware of triggers is important as Bat indicated earlier.
That is important as well. We need to be educated. I know we also use cool brain, hot brain talk to help ss.
A4 I agree on all of these, but what about when the s realizes she has gotten the control and begins to use that against u
A4: In a safe space, let s vent, let s tell their story, without interrupting s or putting your comments in.Listen first!
A4 Stay calm and breath. Don't get into power struggles.
A4 show empathy to the ss. Don't focus on their misbehavior. Look ahead and plan for the next time.
A4 show empathy to the ss. Don't focus on their misbehavior. Look ahead and plan for the next time.
Tell us more. https://t.co/ijJzF5JDgl
That is important as well. We need to be educated. I know we also use cool brain, hot brain talk to help ss.
A4: it is important to let them calm down before having a discussion
Ss will get what they need one way or the other. But that doesn't mean they aren't accountable for their actions.
1 option: Don't get into a power struggle. Give choices- choose wisely so no matter what S chooses it will be ok.
A4: Bibliotherapy: A Terrible Thing Happened By Margaret Holmes.
DING DING! Thank you for saying that. Nobody can hear you when they're upset. https://t.co/acKV39FuaP
A4: it is important to let them calm down before having a discussion
thanks for all of the great resources you're sharing tonight.
A4 We have a Safe Place in each classroom in our building. A place they can go to regain composure.
For sure! Don't make the mistake of trying to discuss or rationalize in the middle of behavior. https://t.co/ipg4T7e7bW
A4: it is important to let them calm down before having a discussion
We do as well. We call it the Focus Room. Used to calm down but also to process thru and used for proactive breaks.
Sometimes that might be the next day when the student is ready and able to have a conversations with you & is calm.
I have to go a bit early tonight. Great topic, I've learned a lot from the discussion.
Need to bring the thinking back to the rational part of the brain- deescalate.
RT We do as well. We call it the Focus Room. Used to calm down but also to process thru and used for proactive breaks.
are there any great books to read about this topic and any great books to share with Ss? Feel like I need more info to help me/Ss
Yes. I always tell them that we will finish this tomorrow. You are too important to forget about helping.
Q5: What tools can we give students to manage their feelings?
A4: Ss Workbook: I Saw It Happen by Wendy Deaton is great for school counselors to use with Traumatized Ss.
I like the name, The Focus Room. Nice!
Anybody use conscious discipline?We have safe places within our rooms and teach Ss strategies- balloon, star, drain & pretzel
RT Yes. I always tell them that we will finish this tomorrow. You are too important to forget about helping.
"Taking a break" is regular routine in my class. No one feels singled out to remove themselves for a while https://t.co/EkzKmA7ETR
A4 We have a Safe Place in each classroom in our building. A place they can go to regain composure.
there are Ts in our school piloting a program. I will get the info.
I am so happy you are here tonight. What great resources. https://t.co/2DADsOYXZ8
A4: Ss Workbook: I Saw It Happen by Wendy Deaton is great for school counselors to use with Traumatized Ss.
I haven't heard of that. Tell me more. https://t.co/P0CQyJqw8c
Anybody use conscious discipline?We have safe places within our rooms and teach Ss strategies- balloon, star, drain & pretzel
"You are too important to forget about helping." Nicely put…I'll be using that:)
A5: Many 1st graders are not able to express their feelings - they need to demonstrate. Use art, playdough, actions, etc.
RT : Q5: What tools can we give students to manage their feelings?
They can ask to go if they are feeling overwhelmed. Some we have on schedules
A5: Have social/emotional books in your real aloud collections. Julia Cook is a good author choice in this arena.
A5: ss need to know expectations, where to go when upset, constant character building and strategies, practice when we are upset
A5 We teach various breathing techniques like the "Balloon" and STAR Stop, take deep breath & relax.
Ss relate to literature so well. It's one of my favorite things. We also conduct morning meetings and check-ins
A5 I love all books to have an open discussion about feelings and behavior.
A5; Music can be a great tool to use.
A5: During morning meeting we talk about how to take care of ourselves if we start feeling overwhelmed. Brainstorm idea
A5 When students are late or return from absence, always make point to say, "Welcome back, you were missed and glad you are here."
Maybe not specific to trauma kids but teaching kids social skills is huge. Helps all to appreciate each other, deal w/ feelings.
Yes, yes, yes! Not, "Why were you late, where were you, you know better." https://t.co/MX0BQeFrVN
A5 When students are late or return from absence, always make point to say, "Welcome back, you were missed and glad you are here."
A5 We teach about the color zones of behavior so they know which zone they are in a where they need to go.
Trauma sensitive schools talk a lot about teaching Ts and Ss how to be resilient. Teaching techniques to deal with emotions.
Words are powerful. Instead of "What's wrong with you" try "What happened to you".
Big part of teaching first grade:) https://t.co/Tl6nfRts0h
Maybe not specific to trauma kids but teaching kids social skills is huge. Helps all to appreciate each other, deal w/ feelings.
RT A5: During morning meet we talk about how to take care of ourselves if we start feeling overwhelmed. Brainstorm idea
A5: B4 an assessment/test I have ss close their eyes and think about the topic at hand/all ss have learned while deep breathing.
Love! Love! Love! https://t.co/jgrMfH7xAx
A5: B4 an assessment/test I have ss close their eyes and think about the topic at hand/all ss have learned while deep breathing.
You have physical spaces ready for them? https://t.co/GBO4QmoDLB
A5 We teach about the color zones of behavior so they know which zone they are in a where they need to go.
