Returning to school can be particularly challenging for children and young people in out-of-home care. Changes in routine, expectations, and relationships can activate stress responses that affect behaviour, wellbeing, and learning.

This resource provides a set of practical, trauma-informed checklists for carers, educators, schools, and professionals. The checklists focus on preparation before school starts, support during the early weeks of term, trauma-responsive classroom practices, and compassionate responses to distress and behaviour.

Key messages

• Behaviour is communication, not defiance

• Safety and connection come before learning

• Predictability and choice support regulation

• Early weeks need lower demands and higher support

• Healing and learning happen in relationships