Youth entering foster care experience TRAUMA. The Federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) frame the concept of trauma around three “E’s”: event(s), experience of the event, and effect. The experience of trauma has lasting adverse effects on the child’s behavior, mental health, physical health,relationships, and emotional regulations. Despite these negative effects, these children are RESILIENT and there is HOPE for them to persevere, manage, and cope.
The following books are not only well-illustrated but phenomenally helpful to instilling hope for the child and providing a sense of normalcy: A Terrible Thing Happened by Margaret M. Holmes and Healing Days: a Guide for Kids who have Experienced Trauma by Susan Faber Straus.
Although a concrete trauma is never named in either book, the narration is open for readers to relate their own experiences. These books touch on the confusing experiences for children with trauma that are emotional (angry, anxious, sad etc.), behavioral (hitting others, crying, running away etc.) and physical (stomachache, sweating, trouble breathing etc.)
The Invisible String by Patrice Karst is another inspiring book. The story reassures children that even though they cannot always be with a loved one, their hearts will always be connected by an invisible string. This delicate story can help the child deal with separation from their family, as well as other losses in their lives.
As a therapist and child welfare worker, I have found it essential to join with the youth in talking about their experience. No matter how scary and complex their history is, it is important to offer these children a safe environment to express their feelings and to develop a healthier way to cope.
By Jackie Boulavong, Family Treatment Manager