An awareness-level introduction to PACE (Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity and Empathy) for anyone supporting children who have experienced relational trauma. This course is PACE-informed, awareness-level learning; it is not, and does not claim to be, formal DDP (Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy) practitioner training or DDPI certification.
2 hours
Duration
Specialist Level
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Certificate Included
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Course Description
An awareness-level introduction to PACE (Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity and Empathy) for anyone supporting children who have experienced relational trauma. This course is PACE-informed, awareness-level learning; it is not, and does not claim to be, formal DDP (Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy) practitioner training or DDPI certification.
Aligned with Supports the Positive Relationships Standard in the Children's Homes (England) Regulations 2015, as explained in the DfE's Guide to the Children's Homes Regulations including the quality standards, and reflects the welfare duties in the Children Act 1989. and legislation including Children Act 1989 and The Children's Homes (England) Regulations 2015 (SI 2015/541), this course helps learners build confidence, strengthen judgement, and apply safer day-to-day practice.
Key Topics Include:
Explain what PACE stands for, where it comes from, and why it was developed for children who have experienced relational trauma.
Describe how early adversity and loss can shape trust, emotional safety, and survival responses in children and young people.
Recognise behaviour as a form of communication and identify common drivers such as fear, shame, and rejection.
Apply Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity, and Empathy in everyday interactions, while understanding what PACE is not.
A young person tests a new keyworker's patience with rude comments and rule-breaking in the first few weeks of a placement.
A child reacts with anger when a familiar routine changes unexpectedly, and staff are unsure whether to hold a boundary or soften it.
A teenager rejects praise and physical warmth, leaving a well-meaning member of staff unsure how to respond.
A classroom assistant is unsure how to use playfulness with a child who is guarded and quick to interpret any comment as criticism.
Important Notice
This awareness course is not a substitute for role-specific training or competency assessment. Always follow your organisation's policies and procedures.
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