A Critical Perspective on Trauma-Informed Care in Early Childhood Education: Recommendations for Research, Practice, and Policy

Abstract

The need for trauma-informed care in early childhood settings is well-established. There are many different approaches to conceptualizing trauma-informed care. In this conceptual article, we begin by providing an overview of trauma and trauma-informed care and offering broad critiques of the trauma-informed movement. Then, we outline recommendations for key components of trauma-informed care in early childhood education settings. We end with future directions for integrating trauma-informed care in preschool systems through research, practice, and policy.