Research on Effective Trauma Treatment for Young Children (Ages 0–6)

Young children can experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and when it goes untreated, it can affect them for years.

A study published in the European Journal of Psychotraumatology reviewed current treatments for children aged 0 to 6. It found that while PTSD looks different in very young children, there are only a small number of well-researched interventions available.

Researchers found that trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) is the most thoroughly studied approach for young children. The strongest evidence supports its use for children ages 3 to 6.

As of now, there are no clear treatment recommendations for children under the age of 2, and many other interventions need further study. This points to the need for continued study in early childhood trauma care.

Understanding the Research

The goal of this study was to better understand which treatments may help infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children who show signs of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

To address this gap, the researchers conducted a scoping review, a method commonly used when research on a topic is limited and scattered across different sources. They searched PubMed, CINAHL, and PsycINFO, and also looked beyond traditional journals.

Once they found relevant studies, the researchers reviewed and organized them by treatment type. They also evaluated how reliable the evidence was for each intervention.

Although several approaches appear effective, the overall research on PTSD treatment for children under 6 is still small. These are the major findings:

• Most studies included children aged 2 to 6, while research specifically focused on children under 2 is sparse and insufficient to make recommendations.
• Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) is the most supported treatment. Multiple randomized controlled trials show that it effectively reduces PTSD symptoms in children ages 3 to 6.
• Child–parent psychotherapy (CPP) is also promising. It is supported by one randomized controlled trial and several large studies. CPP focuses on strengthening the caregiver-child relationship.
• A few additional therapies look promising, but more research is still needed to confirm how well they work. These include Coping with Accident Reactions (CARE), Dyadic Exposure Therapy, Early Pathways, and Stepped-Care TF-CBT.
• EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) was considered “possibly efficacious.” However, it has not yet been tested through randomized controlled trials in young children.
• Caregiver involvement is important. Most interventions included parents or caregivers, which shows that young children heal best when they are supported.

Practical Strategies for Parents and Caregivers

You may be wondering what all of this research actually means for you and your child. Studies and statistics matter, but what matters most at home is knowing how to support a child who has been through something overwhelming.

Take trauma symptoms seriously

In young children, trauma doesn’t always look like fear or sadness. It can manifest as frequent meltdowns, increased clinginess, sleep problems, regression (such as bedwetting or loss of language skills), or changes in play.

These behaviors are signs that a child’s nervous system is overwhelmed. If you notice these changes, it’s important to reach out for professional support. A pediatrician, child therapist, or trauma-informed mental health provider can assess your child.

Focus on connection and responsive caregiving

Your relationship with your child is a powerful tool for healing. Focusing on connection and responsive caregiving means staying calm and offering comfort, especially when your child is distressed.

At home, this might look like sitting with your child during a meltdown instead of sending them away or offering extra closeness at bedtime.

If your child begins therapy, ask how you will be included. Research shows that treatments involving parents or caregivers are more effective for young children.

Remember that healing from trauma isn’t always linear.

There may be days when your child seems to be doing well and other days when old fears or behaviors resurface. This doesn’t mean therapy isn’t working or that you’re doing something wrong.

Healing takes time, and progress happens in small steps. Each time you stay present through the hard moments, you reinforce the message that they are not alone.

The researchers also recommend that future studies intentionally include diverse populations. This will help make sure that no children are overlooked.

If you’re looking for more ways to support a child or teen through trauma or emotional challenges, explore our Trauma Worksheets or full Mental Health Worksheets collection. You’ll find a wide variety of therapist-informed resources for different needs.