Program
Special Education M.A.
Number of Pages
75
Year Approved
2026
First Advisor
Susan Larson
Second Reader
Charles Strand
Abstract
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are potentially traumatic experiences that occur during childhood with lasting effects on students’ academic, social, emotional, and behavioral development. Although childhood adversity typically occurs outside of the educational setting, difficulties with emotional regulation, peer relationships, concentration, behavior, and engagement impact education. Teachers are uniquely qualified to observe these behaviors and provide support. However, educators may lack the foundational knowledge and resources necessary to recognize potential signs of adversity. Teachers need foundational information on ACEs, knowledge of potential signs, and how to provide practical, trauma-informed strategies for responding to students who may be experiencing effects of childhood adversity. This thesis includes a slideshow guide for educators that serves as an introductory professional development resource to increase awareness of childhood adversity and trauma-informed practices in school settings.
Degree Name
Special Education M.A.
Document Type
Masterʼs thesis
Recommended Citation
Sands, K. L. (2026). Understanding and Mitigating the Impact of Childhood Trauma: A Guide for Educators [Masterʼs thesis, Bethel University]. Spark Repository. https://spark.bethel.edu/etd/1311
Terms of Use and License Information
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.