Aims of the Workshop:
The primary aim of these workshops is to enhance mental health and wellbeing by equipping parents and caregivers with a deeper understanding of trauma-informed approaches. Through this, we aim to help break negative generational behaviour patterns by raising awareness and offering effective tools for positive change. These workshops are particularly beneficial for those seeking parent support, foster care support, and adoption support in the face of ongoing behavioural and emotional challenges..
Objectives:
Understanding the Root Cause of Negative Behaviours
Recognising that all negative behaviours, including meltdowns and children’s violent behaviours, often stem from states of stress and fear rather than intentional defiance or disobedience.
Self-Awareness of Fear and Stress
Identifying our own stress and fear responses in moments of conflict and understanding how these reactions affect our relationships with our children—especially those experiencing children mental health issues.
Exploring Brain Function Under Stress
Learning what happens in both our child’s brain and our own brain during stressful and fearful situations, and how this impacts behaviour and emotional regulation.
Coping Strategies for Calmness and Regulation
Acquiring strategies and coping skills that allow us to stay calm and regulated during meltdowns or escalated behaviours, enabling us to better support our children in learning these skills themselves.
The Three Pathways of Emotional Expression
Gaining an understanding of the three key pathways through which emotions are expressed, and how to respond to these in ways that build trust and resilience.
The Power of Apology in Conflict De-escalation
Understanding the significant role an apology can play in de-escalating a stressful situation and how taking responsibility as adults fosters healing and reconnection.
The Importance of Connection and Relationship
Learning the critical role of connection and relationship in healing trauma and building resilience, particularly in children with histories of foster care, adoption, or complex mental health needs.
Outcome of the Workshop:
By integrating this trauma-informed perspective, both staff and parents will be empowered to improve their mental wellbeing and enhance conflict resolution. This approach fosters stronger, more therapeutic relationships and creates an environment where children feel safe and connected enough to express their emotions in healthier, more constructive ways.
As adults become more mindful of their own triggers and stress responses, they will be able to reduce household stress. This not only helps children feel safer and calmer but also supports better emotional development, resilience, and participation in learning. It can also lead to a decrease in challenging behaviours, including meltdowns and children’s violent behaviours, often associated with unresolved trauma or children mental health issues.
Practical Application and Ongoing Support:
In the workshop, we explore the Bryan Post Stress Model, focusing on how to apply it in real-life situations. I share personal experiences to show the transformative impact this approach has had in my own life and home, including in the context of foster care support and adoption support.
After the workshop, attendees are encouraged to join a private Facebook support group for caregivers. This provides ongoing parent support, shared learning, and a safe space to ask questions and connect with others as they begin implementing trauma-informed techniques in daily life.
Impact of Workshops: Parental Confidence & Improved Parent-Child Relationships*
Read full outcomes report here
Workshop Feedback
“This helped me see my child’s behaviour in a completely different way.”
“So reassuring and practical — I feel better equipped already.”
“I finally understand what’s going on underneath the meltdowns — and how to respond with calm instead of panic.”
It was validating, informative, and left me feeling hopeful again.”
