The social relevance is great: according to the Federal Statistical Office, around 3.3 million people seeking protection were living in Germany in 2024, around 27 per cent of whom were children. In addition, more than 357,000 underage Ukrainian nationals received temporary protection in Germany at the end of 2024. Many of these young people have experienced war, flight, violence or loss. Such experiences can have a lasting impact on emotional development, social behaviour and learning.

No practically realisable concepts to date

Against this background, scientists at the University of Wuppertal have developed the new support programme "TAFF - Trauma-sensitive support and development concept for children and young people with a refugee background". The programme was developed and scientifically evaluated under the direction of Professor Friedrich Linderkamp and Professor Gino Casale as part of the research project "TRAILS - Trauma-sensitive diagnosis and support in inclusive schools" funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research. The manual has now been published by Bergische Universität and is freely accessible (see info box).

"School can be a central place of stability, security and support for children and young people under stress," explains Professor Friedrich Linderkamp. "Until now, however, there has been a lack of scientifically sound and practical concepts for teachers."

Strategies for emotion regulation

This is where TAFF comes in: The programme was developed specifically for use in everyday school life and is aimed at teachers and educational professionals. In eleven group sessions, pupils learn strategies for emotion regulation, dealing with stress and stressful thoughts and social problem-solving, among other things. The concept is supplemented by exercises to promote mindfulness and strengthen resources.

The programme is based on internationally proven approaches to trauma education and has been adapted to the conditions of German schools. Particular emphasis was placed on simple practical implementation, culturally sensitive methods and a close focus on the needs of the schools.

"TAFF takes a preventative approach," explains Professor Gino Casale. "It's about supporting troubled children at an early stage and helping schools to create a trauma-sensitive learning environment."