Principles of Support for Children who Witness Violence

• Healing begins with compassionate, healthy, loving relationships. A nuturing relationship with a supportive adult is the most powerful tool we have to help children heal from traumatic events.
  
• Help children know what to expect. Offer a structured environment where children can predict what will come next, i.e. a routine.
  
• Give children permission to tell their stories. It helps children to be able to talk about the violence in their lives with trusted adults.
  
• Give parents help and support. Help parents and other caregivers understand that young children think differently than adults and need careful explanations about scary events.
  
• Foster children's self-esteem. Children who live with violence need reminders that they are lovable, competent and important.
  
• Teach alternatives to violence. Help children learn conflict resolution skills and about non-violent ways of playing.
  
• Model nurturing in our interactions with children. Serve as role models for children by resolving issues in respectful and non-violent ways.
  
• Don't try it alone. Identify and collaborate with other caregivers and agencies in the child's life.
  
• Take care of your own physical and emotional needs. Discuss concerns and issues with a supervisor or supportive colleague.