Calm, Connect, Offer Choices: Trauma-Informed Response Checklist for Early Childhood Educators

Use this trauma-informed, in-the-moment checklist to guide a calm and supportive response when a young child is distressed or having a challenging moment. The checklist prompts educators to steady themselves, acknowledge feelings, consider what behavior may communicate, check safety, offer two appropriate choices, and support regulation without shame or punishment. Keep it nearby for use during or after difficult moments, adapting each response to the child’s immediate safety needs and your program’s procedures.