Grounded Experiences

Every Child is Carrying Life Experiences

NAVIGATING TRAUMA

The Hard Trail Ahead

In the transformative journey of healing, "Grounded Experiences" within the WAGON Method play a pivotal role, symbolizing the child's unique history and coping mechanisms, akin to the indispensable cargo of a wagon. As dedicated Advocates, we delve into these experiences, unpacking and understanding each layer, to guide the child towards resilience and recovery. It's our mission to transform these Grounded Experiences from burdens to assets, empowering children to navigate their paths with hope, love, and the unwavering support of their nurturing network.

NAVIGATING Trauma

Without Grounded Experiences

Imagine a child's journey with a wagon overflowing with the weight of their past experiences. Trauma casts a heavy shadow, obscuring the few positive memories scattered within. The wagon creaks under the strain, making progress agonizingly slow and each obstacle feel insurmountable. The child feels trapped by the past, their path littered with debris and their voice stifled beneath the weight of their burdened wagon.

NAVIGATING Trauma

With Grounded Experiences

Now, picture the child beginning to unpack and transform their wagon. With the help of grounded experiences, they start to sort through the contents. Negative experiences are acknowledged but not allowed to define the entire journey. Positive memories, however small, are cherished and used as sources of strength. New tools and supports, gained through grounded experiences, are added to the wagon, making it lighter and more manageable.

How Stuck children can move forward

The Power of Grounded Experiences

Children facing trauma often feel overwhelmed and disconnected from the world around them. Their internal wagons are weighed down by past experiences, making it difficult to find a path forward. Grounded experiences offer practical tools, supportive relationships, and activities that help a child unpack their wagon and regain a sense of control. These experiences empower children, transforming feelings of helplessness into feelings of capability and connection.

Wagon Masters become the guides who introduce these grounded experiences. They understand how trauma impacts a child's development and tailor support to meet the child's unique needs. They foster a safe space where children can explore difficult emotions, learn new coping skills, and rebuild a sense of trust. With the Wagon Master's guidance, a child's journey shifts from one of stagnation to one of healing, growth, and hope.



The wagon bed

Experiences

The core experiences form the foundation of a child's wagon, holding their sense of self, memories, and both positive and negative milestones. Trauma, like water, can distort these experiences, making it difficult for the child to feel securely grounded.

The Trail Map

Internal Compass

The Trail Map represents a child's internal compass, their sense of direction, and their goals for the future. Trauma can blur and distort this map, leaving the child feeling lost, confused, and unsure of which path to take.

The Memory Chest

Memories

The Memories Chest holds cherished memories, which are a powerful source of strength and resilience for a child. Trauma can cloud these memories and taint them, making it difficult to access their positive impact.

the Milestone

Achievements

Milestone Markers represent achievements and important moments of growth in a child's life, offering a sense of progress. Trauma can overshadow these markers, making the child feel as if their accomplishments are insignificant.

The Shadows

Anxieties

Fears Shadows symbolize the anxieties and worries that a child carries, representing a sense of being overwhelmed. Trauma can magnify these shadows, making fears feel all-consuming and impossible to overcome.

the Lantern

Achievements

The  Lantern represents a child's aspirations and dreams, a guiding light for their future. Trauma can dim the light of this lantern, obscuring hope and making the child feel discouraged about what is possible.

"Happy Ever After" Begins Here

Join our Wagon Train and help your children move forward, one step at a time.

Step 1

Sign up for the training

The Wagon Community consists of individuals, just like you, in need of a support system and a way to comprehend trauma and support children dealing with it.

Step 2

Become a wagon master

Enroll in the online training program to become a Wagon Master, someone who is skilled in creating a supportive environment for children to progress.

Step 3

HELP KIDS MOVE FORWARD

A Wagon Master is the leader of a wagon trail. A child grappling with trauma is encircled by other wagons, yet what they truly require is a Wagon Master to help them move forward.