Resources on Therapeutic Parenting, PACE, and Trauma-Informed Childcare
Helping a child who has experienced trauma to thrive requires a specialised approach. This page explores how Therapeutic Parenting and the PACE model can help caregivers create safe, healing environments for children impacted by adverse childhood experiences.
What is Therapeutic Parenting?
Therapeutic Parenting is a highly nurturing and
structured approach, designed to support children who have had adverse
childhood experiences, such as trauma, neglect, abuse, or disrupted
attachment. Rooted in attachment theory and trauma-informed care, this
parenting style focuses on building trust, emotional regulation, and secure
attachments.
Therapeutic Parenting is commonly used by:
- Foster and adoptive parents
- Guardians of children with developmental trauma
- Professionals such as social workers and therapists
Books on Therapeutic Parenting
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Therapeutic Parenting Jumbo Cards
Buy nowThis colourful pack of jumbo cards is the ideal resource for anyone who wants a fresh and creative way to explore what therapeutic parenting involves.
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The A-Z of Therapeutic Parenting
Buy nowProviding a model of intervention, The A-Z of Therapeutic Parenting gives parents or caregivers an easy to follow process to use when responding to issues with their children.
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The Unofficial Guide to Therapeutic Parenting - The Teen Years
Buy nowAn honest insight into the rollercoaster reality of therapeutically parenting teenagers, from a voice speaking from experience - and above all, the heart - about everything to expect.
What is PACE?
The PACE model, developed by clinical psychologist Dr. Dan Hughes, is a foundational framework within Therapeutic Parenting.
PACE stands for Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity,
and Empathy. Each element plays a critical role in creating emotional
safety and supporting healing from childhood trauma.
PACE supports parents, carers, and professionals in fostering compassionate, trauma-sensitive interactions. It is widely
used across homes, schools, and therapeutic environments to strengthen emotional connection and attachment.
Books on PACE
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Creating Loving Attachments
Buy nowThis positive book will help parents and carers understand how parenting with love and PACE is invaluable to a child's development, and will guide them through using this parenting attitude to help their child feel happy, confident and secure.
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Using Stories to Build Bridges with Traumatized Children
Buy nowA book full of creative ideas for how you can use stories therapeutically with children in counselling, life story work or direct work.
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Why Can't My Child Behave?
Buy nowProvides friendly expert advice on how to respond to difficult behaviours and emotions for parents of children with developmental trauma. An invaluable resource for parents, foster carers, social workers and professionals working with children who are adopted or fostered.
How Can I Connect with a Child Who Has Experienced Trauma?
Children who have faced early trauma may struggle to express or process emotions. They might seem distant, overly independent, or
resistant to affection. These behaviours often stem from a need for control and a fear of vulnerability.
Parents and carers often ask:
- "Why won’t my child talk to me?"
- "How can I build trust with a traumatised child?"
- "How do I help my child open up emotionally?"
Books for Children with Trauma
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The Complete Sarah Naish Therapeutic Parenting Library for Children
Buy nowJoin William Wobbly, Sophie Spikey, Rosie Rudey and more in this collection of all nine Sarah Naish therapeutic storybooks each written specifically for children who have experienced trauma.
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My Life After Trauma Handbook
Buy nowThis book draws on Bridie and Sue's background in Clinical Psychology to help you identify what trauma is, the effect it can have on your physical and mental health, and how you can cope.
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Outsmarting Worry
Buy nowOutsmarting Worry teaches 9-13 year olds and the adults who care about them a specific set of skills that makes it easier to face - and overcome - worries and fears.
We offer a wide range of trauma-informed resources, including workbooks, journals, and therapeutic activity books, designed specifically to support Therapeutic Parenting and the PACE model.