This free PACE poster is a clear, trauma-informed guide to supporting children and young people whose behaviour is driven by big emotions rather than deliberate choice. It is based on the PACE approach – Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity and Empathy – widely used in attachment-based and trauma-informed practice.
Many children and teenagers have experienced trauma, loss, disrupted attachment or chronic stress. When they feel unsafe or overwhelmed, behaviour can reflect anxiety, shame, fear or unmet emotional needs. This resource explains how adults can respond in ways that build emotional safety, strengthen relationships and support emotional regulation.
Each section outlines what PACE looks like in practice:
Playfulness – reducing defensiveness and lowering shame through warmth and calm
Acceptance – validating feelings while still holding clear boundaries
Curiosity – exploring what is underneath challenging behaviour
Empathy – staying emotionally present to help a child regulate
The information guide includes practical examples such as naming feelings, staying calm during conflict, listening more than talking and separating the child from the behaviour. It reinforces the message that children need both connection and boundaries for behaviour change. This printable poster is ideal for parents, carers, foster carers, adoptive parents, teachers, SEN staff, social workers, therapists and counsellors supporting children and teens with trauma, attachment difficulties, ASD, ADHD or social, emotional and mental health needs. PACE helps children feel safe, understood and supported so they can regulate emotions, improve behaviour and build secure relationships.
