Stages of Learning through Trauma

Stages of Learning and Development for a Child with Learning Difficulties

1. Early Engagement (Pre-formal Learning)
   • Focus: Sensory exploration, attention, and communication.
   • Needs: Consistency, sensory input, emotional security.
   • Barriers: Difficulty regulating sensory input, limited attention span, delayed communication.
   • Inclusive Support: Sensory-rich environments, use of visual cues, intensive interaction, and early language development strategies.

2. Foundation Learning (Semi-formal Learning)
   • Focus: Early literacy and numeracy, social interaction, emotional development.
   • Needs: Structure, visual support, repetition, and routine.
   • Barriers: Processing delays, difficulty with transitions, fine/gross motor skills.
   • Inclusive Support: Visual timetables, direct learning, play-based curriculum, differentiated instruction.

3. Developing Independence (Formal Learning Introduction)
   • Focus: Functional skills, personal development, and increased independence.
   • Needs: Scaffolded learning, explicit instruction, targeted interventions.
   • Barriers: Working memory issues, difficulty generalising skills, low confidence.
   • Inclusive Support: Chunked instructions, life-skills-based curriculum, assistive technology.

4. Functional and Academic Progression (Formal Learning)
   • Focus: Core academic subjects, life skills, preparation for adulthood.
   • Needs: Clear expectations, personalised goals, supported transitions.
   • Barriers: Social anxiety, emotional dysregulation, complex communication needs.
   • Inclusive Support: Small group teaching, therapy integration (e.g., SALT, OT), vocational learning options, tailored assessment pathways (e.g., ASDAN, Entry Level).

Common Barriers to Learning

• Cognitive processing challenges
• Speech, language, and communication difficulties
• Sensory sensitivities
• Social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs
• Low self-esteem or anxiety
• Lack of appropriate adaptations in mainstream curriculum

How an Inclusive Curriculum Helps

An inclusive curriculum:

• Recognises diverse learning styles and offers flexible methods of teaching (visual, auditory, kinaesthetic).
• Differentiates content to meet varying levels of understanding and pace.
• Builds in therapy and wellbeing support, not as an add-on but embedded in the learning experience.
• Supports independence through life skills, real-world learning, and community engagement.
• Uses strengths-based approaches to build confidence and motivation.