Newark Enhances Support with AWARE Grant Initiatives

SEL-dec2024

The Office of Student Life recently conducted the Non-Clinical Bounce Back training, a key initiative under the AWARE Grant, successfully equipping 21 school social workers and elementary school counselors with vital skills.

Designed to assist children grappling with stress and trauma, the Non-Clinical Bounce Back program emphasizes the development of essential life skills. Participants learn to help children recognize their emotions, practice relaxation techniques, engage in constructive thinking, schedule positive activities, foster social connections, and enhance problem-solving abilities. These skills can be effectively utilized in small group settings or classroom workshops by NBOE Support Staff. The program includes ten weekly one-hour sessions for small groups of 4-6 children, complemented by a parent education session to reinforce the learned concepts.

This training not only provides staff with practical demonstrations and insights into child trauma and PTSD, but also equips them with strategies to tackle specific challenges in their implementation. As a result, it serves as a valuable, evidence-based resource for delivering accessible, trauma-informed support within schools.