Free workshops equip early childhood professionals with practical strategies to better support children and families impacted by trauma.
Heart of Indiana United Way is helping early childhood professionals build the knowledge and skills needed to create safe, supportive environments where young children can thrive. Over the past seven months, the organization has partnered with Training, Resource and Advocacy Connector (TRAC) to offer Intersection Between Childcare, Trauma and Children, a free professional development workshop that helps childcare providers better understand how trauma affects early childhood development and equips them with practical strategies to support infants, toddlers, young children, and their families.The training has been offered in four communities across Heart of Indiana United Way’s five-county service area through the support of local partners. Together, these workshops have equipped 43 early childhood professionals with practical, research-based strategies they can immediately apply in their work with children and families.
Community Partnerships Make the Training Possible
Heart of Indiana United Way is grateful to the organizations that hosted and supported these workshops:
- Randolph County Early Care and Learning and Monroe Central High School
- Henry County Childcare Network and Memorial Wesleyan Church
- Early Learning Coalition of Fayette County and Spartan Learning Center
- Muncie BY5
These partnerships have helped expand access to high-quality professional development for childcare providers across East Central Indiana.
Why Trauma-Informed Childcare Matters
The first five years of life are a critical time for brain development, and early experiences have a lasting impact on a child’s future. Trauma-informed childcare helps professionals understand how difficult experiences can affect young children and provides them with the tools to create safe, supportive environments where children can heal, learn, and thrive. The Intersection Between Childcare, Trauma and Children workshop, led by Annie Wood Bell, Heart of Indiana United Way’s Director of Family Success, explores:
- Early brain development and why the early years matter
- The effects of trauma on children’s development and behavior
- Trauma-informed strategies that promote safety, connection, and emotional regulation
- Practical tools professionals can use to support both children and their families
“Childcare professionals have the opportunity to shape a child’s earliest experiences every single day,” said Ashley Breedlove, Director of Learning Supports at Heart of Indiana United Way. “When they understand how trauma affects development, they’re better equipped to create safe, supportive environments where children feel secure, build trust, and develop the skills they need to thrive. “
Upcoming Trauma-Informed Childcare Workshop in Anderson
Heart of Indiana United Way is partnering with Park Place Children’s Center to offer the next Intersection Between Childcare, Trauma and Children workshop on Friday, July 11, in Anderson, Indiana. Register online at heartofindiana.org/intersections.
The workshop is free and is open to:
- Childcare providers
- Preschool and early childhood educators
- Home visitors
- Family support professionals
- Anyone who works with young children and their families
- By investing in the professionals who care for our youngest children, we’re helping build stronger families, healthier communities, and brighter futures across East Central Indiana.
- Whether you’re an experienced childcare provider or just beginning your career, this workshop offers practical tools to help every child feel safe, supported, and ready to thrive.