This article showcases the experiences of early childhood professionals who took part in ISSA’s Foundational Training on Psychological First Aid (PFA) and Trauma-Informed Practices with Young Children and their Caregivers developed with ISSA Member Amna and War Child. Through their reflections, we see how the training has supported them both in their work with young children and in caring for their own mental health. These voices offer insight into how practical, trauma-informed tools are helping to build resilience across the early childhood workforce—especially in crisis-affected and under-resourced settings.
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This short film brings together voices from the field and highlights the impact of the training through real stories and reflections.
📚 Read the article below to learn from more voices from the field:
Behind every thriving child is a dedicated adult fostering their growth in a safe, inclusive environment. Yet children’s well-being is deeply connected to the mental health of the adults who care for them. Behind these caregivers’ smiles and support lies a reality that often goes unnoticed: the emotional toll this work can take. And when that toll goes unaddressed, it affects more than just the adults—it impacts the children in their care.
Across the globe, children face adversity—conflict, displacement, natural disasters, and poverty—that can have lasting impacts on their mental health and well-being. Those working with them, especially early childhood educators, are on the frontlines. But too often, they lack the support, tools, and training needed to navigate these challenges while safeguarding their own mental health.
“Training early childhood educators in trauma-informed practices is an investment in the future. By equipping educators with these skills, we ensure that children receive the support they need during their formative years, which can have a lasting positive impact on their development and well-being.”
— Ana & Aleksandra, ISSA Member CIP, Serbia
ISSA and its partners have responded to this urgent need by developing and delivering a Foundational Training on Psychological First Aid (PFA). This training, created with Amna and War Child, offers practical, trauma-informed tools that help professionals respond to children's distress while also caring for their own well-being.
“Professionals working with children face increasing challenges, often beyond their professional competencies. The PFA training highlights essential skills like recognizing our limits, seeking professional help, managing stress, and practicing self-care. These tools make the training invaluable for those working with young children.”
— Éva Molnár, Psychological First Aid Training
The Power—and Challenge—of Self-Care
The importance of self-care—long considered a taboo in many contexts—came to the forefront during these sessions.
“Self-care has always been a taboo in our society. This training reminded us just how crucial our psychological well-being is, especially as professionals who care for others. The ISSA trainers showed us that we must have the courage to take care of ourselves—and that was incredibly powerful!”
— Anonymous PFA Trainer
“Let’s pay attention to ourselves and practice self-care first, so we can continue to guide children with compassion and strength.”
— Éva Molnár, Psychological First Aid Training
In Ukraine, where educators continue working under the strain of war, these tools are not just helpful—they are vital.
“My priority is to empower teachers and educators in this challenging time in Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of self-care to maintain stability. I will apply stress relief and coping strategies from this training, ensuring educators can support young children while also prioritizing their own well-being.”
— Natalia Dudnyk, Psychologist, Ukraine
Building Connection, Community, and Long-Term Change
But the journey doesn’t end with training. Participants expressed a strong desire for connection, reflection, and ongoing support—laying the foundation for sustained professional growth.
“We established a professional learning community on this topic in response to the strong need expressed by participants for sharing and exchanging experiences among colleagues.”
— Trendafil Meretev, ISSA Member For Our Children, Bulgaria
“For professionals, I realized that it is useful to have a forum to share real-life experiences which go beyond theory, and I would again draw attention to the attitude-transforming nature of the training.”
— Éva Molnár, Psychological First Aid Training
To ensure long-term impact, this work must be embedded into systems. The integration of mental health and self-care into pre-service and in-service training is essential to cultivating a resilient, prepared workforce.
“A resilient workforce is not just trained for today’s challenges; it is prepared for tomorrow’s unknowns. Systemic change ensures that this preparation is ongoing, embedded, and supported at every level.”
— Anonymous PFA Trainer
“Mental health support is as vital as water and food to life, survival and development. We have a duty of care to the children we work with. In that sense, PFA training is fundamental.”
— Mary Moloney, ISSA Member Mary Immaculate College, Ireland
The message from the field is clear: when we invest in those who care for children, we invest in stronger, safer futures for all. The Early Childhood Workforce Initiative and its partners continue to listen, adapt, and innovate—powering up childhood by supporting those who empower children.
