Age: 0-5
Applicable To: Groups or Individuals
CAPPD Concepts: Predictable, attuned, calm
What It Is: Children affected by trauma will often cling or want to stay close to their primary caregiver; or conversely can be indiscriminate about who they hug. It is important to provide appropriate physical touch to these children. Sit close together, hug them, rub their backs, etc, but ONLY provide physical affection when the child seeks it; requesting/giving un-asked for affection can cause children to re-experience (re-traumatize) traumatic experiences related to physical touch or trigger trauma-related behaviors.
Why It Helps: Physical comfort can help calm children and help them cope with the trauma. When children feel free from fear and physical harm, they can better regulate their emotions and behavior.
