How Can TBRI Help Parents, Educators and Children

TBRI, or Trust-Based Relational Intervention, is an approach to caregiving, whether in a family or educational setting, that is designed to help children who have experienced trauma, abuse, neglect, or other challenging life experiences. Developed by Dr. Karyn Purvis and Dr. David Cross at the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development, TBRI is based on neuroscience, attachment theory, and developmental psychology. It focuses on building trust and creating a safe environment for children to heal and develop.

Here's how TBRI can help teachers, parents, and children:

1. Empowers Adults with Understanding: TBRI equips adults, whether parents or teachers, with a deep understanding of the needs and behaviors of children who have experienced trauma. This understanding helps adults respond to children with empathy and patience rather than frustration or misunderstanding.
2. Provides Effective Strategies: TBRI offers practical strategies and techniques for responding to challenging behaviors in a nurturing and constructive way. These strategies help adults connect with children, build trust, and teach them healthier ways of relating and coping.
3. Creates a Safe Environment: By creating an environment where children feel safe and understood, TBRI helps children lower their defenses and engage more fully in learning or family activities. This safe environment is essential for healing from past traumas and developing healthy relationships.
4. Strengthens Attachment: TBRI emphasizes the importance of secure attachment between caregivers and children. By focusing on building trust and connection, TBRI helps strengthen the attachment bond, which is crucial for healthy emotional development and resilience.
5. Teaches Self-Regulation Skills: Children who have experienced trauma often struggle with regulating their emotions and behaviors. TBRI teaches children self-regulation skills by providing consistent support, structure, and guidance. This helps children learn to manage their emotions and impulses in a healthy way.
6. Promotes Healing and Growth: Ultimately, TBRI helps children heal from past traumas and develop the social, emotional, and cognitive skills they need to thrive. By providing a supportive and nurturing environment, TBRI enables children to develop resilience and reach their full potential.

TBRI is a holistic approach that recognizes the importance of relationships, safety, and empathy in helping children who have experienced trauma overcome their challenges and build brighter futures. Whether in a school or home setting, TBRI empowers adults to support children in their healing journey and create environments where they can flourish.