NEW video teaches kids about trauma and the brain

I am so excited to share this exciting new resource with you! The Brain Game is a new psycho-educational, 20-minute video, It’s designed to teach children about how trauma may have impacted their brain and what they can do about it. It was created by Family Futures, an adoption support agency based in London.

The Brain Game is designed around video game imagery and vernacular children are familiar and comfortable with. This is effective because each “level” is first played on easy mode. This sets the stage for what healthy and normal is. Then the level is replayed on hard mode and kids learn how trauma can make things more difficult for them.

Here’s the introduction to The Brain Game which will give you a good idea of the look, feel, and accessibility for children.

01: Intro

Here’s a sneak peek at the other 4 levels of The Brain Game.

**02: THE WOMB**
Kids learn how substance abuse, nutrition, and their parents’ stress can impact the ability of their brain to develop properly even before they are born.

**03: BIRTH**
Kids learn the potential impact of being sent to ICU, being born dependent on alcohol or having an inhospitable environment as an infant.

**04: BRAIN BUILDER**
Kids learn about the primitive, feeling, and thinking brains and how early traumas can cause “big” feelings. The also learn about fight-flight-freeze responses.

**05: HOW WE CAN HELP**
Kids learn that their brain is like “plastic.” It can change and grow and overcome many of their early traumas.

Why do I like The Brain Game?

It reinforces the idea that children cannot control the trauma they’ve gone through.
It acknowledges the unfortunate reality that kids may be stuck playing life on hard mode.
It offers hope by showing how kids can help themselves change and live happier lives.

If you've been through a painful childhood there's a lot you can do to take control, to change how you think, and to enjoy the rest of your life. – The Brain Game via @FamilyFuturesUK Click To Tweet

How you can use this resource

Parents – The Brain Game is a wonderful way to help children who have experienced trauma understand what’s going on with their mind and body. It’s also a valuable tool for siblings to foster an empathetic and supportive family environment.

Groups – The Brain Game can be watched with small groups of children and used for discussion. And don’t overlook it’s value for adults either. Trauma is a complicated and emotionally charged topic and many adults will learn from this video.

Therapists – The Brain Game is an excellent tool for therapists to use with children who have experienced trauma. It will be an effective discussion starter and a good way to get parents and children on the same page.

This resource is not useful for kids only!
The paradigm shift to trauma informed is a tricky one and this video can be eye opening for adults as well.