Intro to Trauma Competent Care
A First Step - Windows of Tolerance and Maximizing Safety Lesson 5 GOAL: To discuss windows of tolerance and what felt safety means in all the places where we minister to children. Windows of tolerance allow children to regulate themselves in response to disappointments and challenges. Reducing the fear in children through Felt Safety will result in greater windows of tolerance, lessening the intensity of dark emotions and improving behavior. Children who begin to experience an environment in which they truly feel safe feel freedom from the overwhelming emotions of fear and anxiety that control their emotions and behavior. Practical ways to help children not only be safe, but to feel safe : 1. Help our children’s bodies experience safety by providing the opportunity for physical activity, water, and a small nutritious bite to eat every two hours. 2. When a child receives safe, nurturing touch, they feel relaxation in the entire body. Safe touches reduce heart rate and blood pressure and helps children sleep better. Some children aren’t used to safe touch, so always ask a child first if it’s OK to give them a hug or put a hand on their shoulder. 3. An environment with routines and predictability will help to decrease a child’s anxiety. 4. Communicate safety to children through • Smiles: “I approve of you” • Eye contact: “I see you.” • Positive gestures: “You are welcome in my world.”
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