The Childhood Trauma Task Force (CTTF) has developed five Guiding Principles to help organizations become trauma-informed and responsive (TIR).
The way that an organization applies each Guiding Principle will vary depending on the role, responsibilities, and purpose of that organization. Additionally, it will vary depending on the age range and circumstances of the children the organization serves.
1. SAFETY
Ensuring the physical, social and emotional safety of children is vital, as is adequately supporting the staff who care for them.
2. TRANSPARENCY AND TRUST
Promoting transparency and building trust between children and caregivers creates an important foundation for healthy relationships.
3. EMPOWERMENT, VOICE, AND CHOICE
Listening to and engaging with children – and their caregivers – helps empower them, while nurturing their strengths, capabilities and talents.
4. EQUITY, ANTI-BIAS EFFORTS, AND CULTURAL AFFIRMATION
Addressing discrimination, promoting equity, and practicing cultural affirmations can help avoid re-traumatizing children and their families.
5. HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS AND INTERACTIONS
Teaching and modeling healthy relationship behaviors help children learn to cultivate positive interactions with peers and family members.
