Supporting children and families with developmental differences through a trauma-informed and disability justice-oriented approach

Abstract

This practicum report summarizes and reflects my learning and experiences at the Alvin Buckwold Child Development Program (ABCDP) in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, a clinical field practicum in partial fulfilment of a Master of Social Work degree. The purpose of this 450-hour practicum was to gain graduate-level field experience using a trauma-informed care and disability justice-oriented approach while working with children and families accessing support at the ABCDP. In addition to working as a multidisciplinary team member, I engaged in case management, provided therapy to children and caregivers, and became familiar with various programs relevant to children and families with developmental differences. The report begins with a description of the Saskatchewan Health Authority and the ABCDP, a discussion of my learning goals and outcomes, and an overview of child development and family-centred care. A literature review of trauma-informed care and disability justice follows. I then discuss how these frameworks were integrated into my clinical social work practicum, along with social work values and ethical considerations. The report concludes with a summary and reflection on the personal and professional growth I experienced because of my clinical practicum experience.