ABSTRACT
This chapter begins with an introduction to the key foundations of high-quality family engagement. The authors then introduce the need to expand these foundations to include a consideration of state dependent functioning and trauma-responsive practices. The authors briefly introduce several core principles of trauma-responsive practice explaining that each of them is described in greater depth throughout the book. Then, the first core principle is overviewed: Building Trusting Relationships that Lead to Power-Sharing Partnerships with parents and families. The three concepts introduced by Barrera and Kramer (Barrera, I., & Kramer, L. 2009. Using skilled dialogue to transform challenging interactions: Honoring identity, voice, and connection (1st Ed.). Baltimore, MD: Brookes Publishing), respect, reciprocity and responsiveness, are introduced and connected to the central goal of creating healthy, respectful and safe environments for parents and families. The concept of emergent listening is discussed and the contagious nature of stress and calmness due to mirror neurons. Several vignettes highlight what this principle looks like in practice.
