How to Build Trust with Students Who’ve Experienced Trauma

When students have lived through trauma, school can feel like just another unpredictable place in their lives. Trust isn’t given automatically — it’s earned through consistent, compassionate actions over time. As educators, our role is to create an environment where students feel safe enough to learn, explore, and connect.

Here are three ways to build trust — plus some helpful resources I personally recommend.

1. Show Consistency in Words and Actions

Students who’ve experienced trauma often expect adults to be unpredictable. By keeping your word, following through on promises, and maintaining classroom routines, you send a clear message: I am safe and dependable.

• Helpful Resource: Fostering Resilient Learners by Kristin Souers — an essential read for understanding how to create consistency and connection in trauma-informed classrooms.

  
  

2. Create a Safe Space for Communication

Trust grows when students know they can express themselves without fear of judgment or punishment. This might mean offering one-on-one check-ins, using feelings charts, or giving students a non-verbal way to let you know they need support.

• Helpful Resource: Keep a teacher reflection journal to track patterns in student behavior and your own responses. Writing regularly helps you stay aware and intentional in your interactions.

  
  

3. Invest in Your Own Learning

The more you understand trauma’s impact on the brain and behavior, the more equipped you are to respond with empathy instead of frustration. Professional development is a powerful trust-building tool because it changes how you show up for your students.

• Helpful Resource: Enroll in an online trauma-informed teaching course to deepen your skills and earn PD hours while you learn strategies you can use right away.

Bottom line:Building trust with students who’ve experienced trauma takes patience, consistency, and ongoing learning. The more intentional we are about our words, actions, and knowledge, the more we create a classroom where every student feels seen, valued, and safe.

(Note: Some links in this post are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I use and trust.)