Occupational therapists need to be aware of recent research exploring the effects of traumatic experiences on the development and health of children and the influence of those experiences on long-term health into adulthood. Equally important, trauma-informed approaches in education include sensory-based self-regulation strategies that are often considered specialized knowledge for occupational therapists. Occupational therapists need to understand how trauma-informed principles relate to occupational therapy models, frameworks, and evidence-based interventions for children who have had traumatic experiences. Occupational therapsists can use a universal approach to creating school environments and contexts that support all children, especially children who have experienced trauma, engage and meaningfully participate in school.
