Educator Training
Trauma-informed early childhood music protocol training for educators
This 3.5-hour training is designed for educators to learn how to implement a trauma-informed early childhood music protocol. The protocol aids in developing self-regulation and relational capacity in young children (aged 3-5 years). The training is available online or in-person, and no prior musical experience is required.
The training discusses why taking a trauma-informed approach is vital when working with young children who have experienced adversity or complex trauma. It presents the 5 key elements of a trauma-informed music therapy protocol (adapted for early childhood contexts) which uses rhythmic play, cross-lateral movement, and proprioceptive stimulation to support each child in calming their nervous system.
The workshop covers:
- Current research and theory on complex trauma and child brain development.
- An exploration of the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics and its application to music therapy.
- Examples from practice using a trauma-informed music therapy protocol.
- Discussion and information on how the protocol can be applied to the early childhood context.
This protocol has been presented at various events such as the Australian Music Therapy Conference, The Trauma Aware Schooling Conference, and more recently the Music Therapy and Family Symposium in Vienna, Austria.