Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in children occurs after a child has endured, witnessed, or has been deeply effected by the news of an experience such a vehicle accident, plane crash, violent attack, sexual abuse, kidnapping, murder, suicide, illness, death, riot, war or a natural disaster. PSTD is a disabling condition that can leave children with any of the following symptoms.



 Recurring Nightmares
 Sleeplessness
 Fearfulness
 Irritability
 Agitation
 Intense Vigilance
 Avoidance
 Separation Anxiety
 Change in School Performance
 Emotional Numbness
 Social Withdrawal
 Lost of Interest in Activities
 Angry Outbursts
 Difficulty Concentrating
 Guilt
 Worry for Others
 Physical Complaints



PTSD can happen at any age and can occur suddenly or develop gradually and symptoms can continue for years, decreasing and increasing at the sign of a “trigger” the unpleasant memories.  Children with PTSD often have persistent, frightening thoughts. They may reenact the traumatic event in repetitive play, retell it often, or use art to illustrate their experiences; however, unlike most children these outlets will not reduce their anxiety of fear.  If symptoms occur for more than a month, it is important to seek medical guidance to confirm a PTSD diagnosis.



Red Door Learning Montessori is proud to offer care for children diagnosed with PTSD.  It is our goal to provide a safe atmosphere in which children can share personal feelings. RDLM provides a familiar, calm, consistent environment in which the child can express his or her feelings without judgment, but we would never pressure the child to do so. The Red Door is a carefree learning facility where the focus is not magnifying the problem or fear, but focusing on love, acceptance, and peace.  Our staff members work closely with parents and care givers so that we are aware of activities or circumstances that may trigger the child’s anxiety or regression and we safeguard against these triggers.

In addition to our work with PTSD, we also encourage parents to partake in their child’s well being by offering tips and techniques that together will benefit a child suffering from PTSD.  We recommend the following tips.



 Consider your child's developmental level when discussing a traumatic event.

 Keep your child's routine as normal as possible, provide your child may need extra love, support and reassurance to feel safe.

 Listen if the child wants to talk, but do not force him or her to do so.

 Reassure your child that his or her feelings are normal.

 Emphasize that your child is not to blame for what happened.

 If you are feeling distraught or overwhelmed, then seek help!  You are not in this alone.

 Keep lines of communication open with us so we can provide the best care for your child.



If you are in need of additional information on PTSD in children, please visit   AACAP.org and seek the help of a medical professional of therapist.  RDLM’s door is always open to children with special needs and unique abilities.  Please contact us if you are in need of assistance.