This talk will use the Cognitive Model of Trauma to explain how events can have a traumatic impact on children and young people. In particular, it will describe the role of memory, meaning and maintenance in the development of difficulties. Various examples based on clinical work will be used to illustrate the process. It will describe the reactions of children and young people to potentially traumatic events, including Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Finally some time will be spent discussing what can be done to help, according to research evidence.