From Breakdowns to Breakthroughs: 10 Simple Strategies to Reduce Disruptions and Create Trauma-Responsive Classrooms

By Dr. Katie Fields and Dr. Jill M. Davis

What if "misbehavior" isn't defiance but communication?

You've met the student who melts down over a small change. The one who won't stop moving. The kid who argues with everything you say. You've tried rewards, consequences, charts, and clip systems and still find yourself Googling "how to survive teaching" at midnight.

Here's a radical idea: The problem isn't the kid. It's our approach. From Breakdowns to Breakthroughs moves you from trauma-informed awareness to trauma-responsive practice.

This is a practical, no-fluff guide that helps you understand what's really going on beneath disruptive behavior. (Spoiler alert: at least half of all students have experienced trauma.) Their "acting out"? It's not about disrespect. It's how they're coping.

In 10 quick, doable Hacks, you'll learn how to:

Respond to behavior in ways that build trust, not tensionCreate a calm classroom without losing controlDesign lessons that support, not retraumatizeHandle pushback from those who think trauma-informed = soft

This book isn't one more thing to add to your plate. It's a mindset shift that makes teaching easier ... and more human.

Perfect for teachers, admin, and anyone who works with kids, this book helps you turn your classroom into a space where healing and learning happen side by side.

Small changes, big impact. On your students ... and on you.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1956512748
• ISBN13: 9781956512748
• Release Date: October 2025
• Publisher: Times 10 Publications
• Length: 276 Pages
• Weight: 0.82 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 6.0" x 9.0"