Responding to Children under Stress: A Skill-Based Training Guide for ClassroomTeams

摘要

In a multistressed environment children and families are affected by one or moresources of significant stress, for example, homelessness, substance abuse, or lack of basic necessities. The stresses are not caused by single events such as divorce or death of a parent. Rather, they are routine, unrelenting, and woven into daily life and are a result of societal conditions and pressures that are beyond the control of individuals. Living with high levels of stress can take a toll on young children's development in both direct and indirect ways. For example, children may not receive immunizations or medical care, they may not have safe places to play, or they may not have enough food at mealtimes. Many Head Start staff have asked for assistance in addressing the needs of children and families from multistressed environments. This skill-based training program was developed in response to these requests.