Children Exposed to Trauma

This chapter provides an overview of information relevant to art educators concerning children exposed to traumatic events or who are in crisis, including different types of trauma and children’s reactions to trauma. The at-risk spectrum is discussed, including definitions of the term as well as approaches to and alternative models for viewing students with such a label. A comparison of practices of an art teacher and art therapist who may work with children exposed to trauma is also covered. The chapter concludes with what art education can offer and what art teachers can do to assist children exposed to trauma or in crisis.