Florida Guardian ad Litem Academy

In this course, you will learn that many of the children that you will work with as a Guardian ad Litem have been exposed to trauma. Experiencing trauma may affect the child’s behavior, development, and relationships and by understanding how trauma impacts children, and adopting a trauma-informed approach, child advocates can play a crucial role in alleviating the effects of trauma.

By the conclusion of this chapter you should be able to:

• Discuss how children’s exposure to traumatic events and their subsequent reactions affect a child advocate’s ability to achieve safety, permanency, and well-being goals.
• Understand how adverse childhood experiences can affect the children and families we work with.
• Have a better understanding of your role as a Guardian ad Litem in advocating for help to heal the children’s trauma and encourage their resilience.
• Recognize the importance of healthy relationships and trauma informed care to help children overcome the effects of trauma.

You are not expected to complete the course in one sitting.  It is recommend you complete one chapter at a time, allowing at least 30 minutes per chapter.  

NOTE:  For GAL Staff and Volunteers, the Optima training topic for this 1.5 hour course is "ACES/Effects of Trauma".

This material has been exclusively designed for I am for the child Academy.