Is it possible for your child to perform "the task" or meet an expectation one day, only to struggle with it the next, even if it's critical?
Chances are, you've encountered this scenario with your child or teenager. "On and off days" are a nearly universal symptom for kids with brain-based differences.
Picture this: life with FASD is like being on a rollercoaster that you didn't sign up for.
It's got twists, turns, and loops that can leave your head spinning. Sure, there are moments of exhilaration, but let's not kid ourselves – it's also filled with those stomach-dropping, heart-racing moments that catch you off guard.
Caring for children often means dealing with big emotions and challenging behaviors like aggression, defiance, or meltdowns. Understanding how the brain works can help you respond with patience and confidence.
Children’s behavior is shaped by their brain development and environment.
Sleep plays a crucial role in the development and well-being of all children, but for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), sleep disorders can be a particularly challenging hurdle. It is estimated that 50-80% of children with ASD experience some form of sleep disorder, such as insomnia, night terrors, early waking, or excessive daytime sleepiness.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) are both complex neurodevelopmental conditions that impact behavior, learning, and social interactions. While the two disorders stem from different causes, they often present with overlapping symptoms, making it challenging to distinguish between them at times.
An Individualized Educational Program is meant to be a plan that adapts to the unique needs of every student. For families raising children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders, the process of securing effective educational supports can be frustratingly complex. One challenge is a lack of understanding about the brain-based nature of FASD.
Have you ever wondered why emotions sometimes seem to take control, making it difficult to think clearly or make rational decisions? Dr. Daniel Siegel, a distinguished psychiatrist, and neuroscientist, has developed a simple model, the Hand Model of the Brain. This metaphor can help us understand how our emotions and rational thinking are interconnected.
In the landscape of caregiving advice and techniques, one approach stands out not just as a methodology but a profound shift in perspective: Brain-First parenting. Rooted in empathy, understanding, and connection, Brain-First parenting offers a transformative journey from traditional compliance to a more harmonious relationship with our children.
Interoception is like your body's internal GPS. It's the awareness of signals inside your body – things like your heartbeat, breath, hunger, and even emotions. Think of it as the communication network between your body and your brain. When you're tuned into your interoceptive awareness, you're better able to understand and respond to what your body needs.
As a caregiver, there are times when you might find yourself managing multiple children who are dysregulated at the same time. Dysregulation can manifest as emotional outbursts, physical aggression, or withdrawal, and can be particularly challenging when more than one child is experiencing it simultaneously. Here are some strategies to help:
Understanding the need behind the behavior and being a detective isn't always simple or easy....no matter how much coffee you've had to get your upstairs brain going. We have lots of tools already in our parenting toolbox, but how do we know which tool is the right 'fix' to the behavior? It's completely okay and normal to feel stuck and unsure of how to deal with a big behavior.
There isn't a definitive percentage of children with adverse experiences who have Sensory Processing Disorder, but research suggests that sensory processing challenges are common in this population. Estimates from studies on children in foster care or adopted from institutional settings suggest that 30% to 80% exhibit significant sensory difficulties.
Children who have been impacted by trauma are more likely to have sensory processing challenges, and therefore require some creativity from their caregivers. These activities, when combined with TBRI’s connecting principles of co-regulation, can help children feel more in control of their sensory worlds and more secure in their relationships with caregivers.
A sensory space can be a designated area where a child feels safe, calm, and regulated. The goal is to create an environment that reduces sensory overwhelm and promotes relaxation. You could have a small corner of a room dedicated to this, and when the child feels overwhelmed, they can go to this space for a few minutes to reset and calm their body.
Managing the flight response in children using Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI®) involves understanding and addressing the underlying reasons for their flight response while providing a safe and supportive environment. It requires patience, and understanding. Here are some strategies for managing flight response in children using TBRI®:
When it comes to dealing with lying behavior in children, TBRI® offers a compassionate and effective approach. By prioritizing empathy, understanding, and building trust, parents can address dishonesty while strengthening their relationship with their children. In this blog post, we'll explore some strategies for managing lying behavior using TBRI® principles.
Parenting can be a rollercoaster ride, complete with ups, downs, and the occasional loop-de-loop. But what happens when the ride takes an unexpected turn into the realm of violent behavior in kids? Fear not, because Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI®) is here to guide you through the labyrinth. Managing violent behavior in children is not one-size-fits-all.
I wanted to take a moment to chat about something that affects us all at some point in our lives: grief. You know, that complex and often confusing mix of emotions that comes after we've experienced loss. Whether it's the passing of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or any significant change, grief is a journey that's anything but straightforward.
Let's talk about something we all know—food battles with our kids. We've all been there. Your child suddenly decides that broccoli is public enemy number one, and mealtime becomes a battleground. Fear not, we've got some strategies to make your life easier. It's not about who wins the battle; it's about raising healthy, happy, well-fed kids.
Let's have a real talk about something we don't always put on the highlight reel – blocked care. You know those moments when you're giving it your all as a parent, and suddenly, it's like you've hit a roadblock? You're in the parenting groove, doing your superhero thing, and then BAM! It feels like you've run into a wall made of frustration, exhaustion, and overwhelm.
One topic that deserves further discussion is the changing dynamics of a home when it includes biological, foster, and adoptive siblings. It's essential to acknowledge and meet the needs of every child in the family, making sure they feel supported and valued during times of change. We have some strategies to honor everyone's voice and choice within your family.
While technology offers incredible educational and entertainment opportunities, it also presents risks that can have significant implications on a child's development and safety. This is where parental controls come into play, acting as a crucial tool for caregivers to manage and safeguard their children’s digital experiences.
Keep in mind that children who come from challenging backgrounds, have experienced abuse, or struggle with attachment issues, often struggle to express themselves, which can erode their sense of safety and trust in adults. It's crucial to respond effectively to their behaviors, matching the level of response to the situation at hand, rather than driving behavior.
Children who have faced Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)—like neglect, trauma, or loss—carry those experiences in ways that can shape their emotions, behaviors, and even their health. But you have the power to help them heal! The simple moments you share each day—the bedtime stories, the warm meals, the reassuring hugs—are more powerful than you realize.
One of the most common questions I get asked in behavioral consultations is Why is the word No such a trigger word for our children who come from a background of trauma? So I thought it might be important to discuss this in a blog so that we can understand that many times this is not so much willful disobedience as it is a survival response.
We need to talk about something serious: systemic trauma and how it affects the kids we look after. You may be thinking, “Systematic trauma in kinship care? That’s not a thing. Kids are with their families.” Systematic trauma refers to the emotional and psychological wounds that may unintentionally be inflicted upon children living without their biological parents.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and while much of the focus is often on those receiving care, it's equally important to shine a light on the mental health of those giving care, the parents, grandparents, foster parents, kinship caregivers, and guardians who show up every day for children in need. Caregiving is a powerful act of love, but it’s also demanding.
Being a grandparent is supposed to be full of spoiling, storytelling, and sending the kids home when you're tired. But for thousands across the country, that season takes a different turn. Whether due to addiction, incarceration, mental health challenges, or other family disruptions, many grandparents find themselves stepping back into the role of full-time parent.
Parenting, especially in kinship caregiving, comes with unique emotional challenges. When a child misbehaves, it can feel like a personal attack—especially if their actions seem intentional. However, many behaviors stem from past trauma, stress, or unmet needs rather than a desire to hurt or manipulate you. That’s where the Q-TIP method comes in.
Life can get pretty hectic, and we often forget to appreciate the little moments that can actually heal and uplift us. Have you heard about glimmers? They are the opposite of triggers. A glimmer is a tiny micro-moment of happiness; a sign of hope. Once you begin to look for them, they will start to appear everywhere and have a massive positive impact on our well-being.
Sometimes we use all the parenting tools in their toolbox and still feel like behaviors aren’t changing and have no idea where to start. Many will tell me, “I feel like a failure because of my child’s behaviors!” I am here to tell you that you are NOT failing. I want to help you redefine successful caregiving as our ability to make our kids feel safe, seen, soothed, and secure..
A classic dance between caregivers and kids with big behaviors is what I call “overdrive parenting” mode— and we have all been there— the instinct to respond to your child’s intense moments with equally intense responses. The aftermath can feel like running a marathon. The guilt, the frustration, the total energy drain—it all leaves you feeling isolated and stuck.
Across the country, kinship caregivers are raising children whose parents are struggling with substance use disorders. These heroes often navigate complex challenges and stigmas while providing the love and stability that these children desperately need. We must equip kinship caregivers with the tools and resources to face these challenges head-on.
In a galaxy far, far away, two siblings embarked on a journey that would shape the fate of worlds. Before they became the iconic heroes we know, Luke Skywalker and Leia Organa were raised in the humble embrace of kinship care. Two ordinary siblings became legends—a testament to the resilience and enduring power of love and family.
In the world we live in, finding moments of peace and contentment can be a challenging task. The philosophy of "Let Go and Fill Up" suggests that embracing a paradoxical approach can lead to a more fulfilling and enriched life. By releasing the burdens that hold you back and actively choosing to fill up with positivity, you embark on a journey of personal growth.
Starting the new year with new parenting strategies and resources can contribute to a positive and enriching family environment. Here are some uplifting parenting strategies and resources you might consider! Remember that parenting is a journey and embrace the opportunity to enhance the positive aspects of your parenting approach.
I was asked, “How can we get others to understand brain-first parenting?”. It requires understanding the neurological and cognitive processes underlying behaviors rather than just focusing on the behaviors themselves. Shifting from a behavioral lens is a process that requires education, practical application, consistent reinforcement, and collaboration.
What is kinship care? It's when a child is taken care of by a family member other than their parents. It's like when Aunt Mae and Uncle Ben stepped in to raise Peter Parker. It's all about keeping the family ties strong and providing a safe, loving home for kids who need it; and of course teaching them all about, "with great power, comes great responsibilities".
But Black History Month isn't just about looking back—it's about looking forward, too. It's about recognizing that the fight for equality is far from over. We're talking about systemic racism, social injustice, and all the things that still need fixing. It's about having those tough conversations and taking real action to make things better for everyone.
National Adoption Month is a time to celebrate the beauty of adoption and its life-changing impact. It's a reminder that family isn't just about biology but the love and care we offer one another. By understanding the different sides of adoption and supporting those involved, we can make a real difference in the lives of kids still waiting for their forever families.
Social Work Month is celebrated annually in March to honor the contributions and impact of social workers in our communities. By celebrating Social Work Month, we recognize the invaluable contributions of social workers and reaffirm our commitment to promoting social justice, equality, and well-being for all individuals and communities.
It's a time to celebrate and honor the often unsung heroes among us—kinship caregivers. It's important to recognize the vital role that these caregivers play in the lives of children who cannot remain with their birth parents. Kinship caregivers provide a sense of stability, love, and continuity that is crucial for a child's development and well-being.
Excitement is in the air as Foster Kinship, a dedicated organization committed to supporting and empowering kinship caregivers, opens the doors to our brand-new building space, Located at 8691 W. Sahara Ave Las Vegas, NV 89117. This milestone marks not only a physical expansion but also a transformative moment for the community we serve.
Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated annually from September 15th to October 15th, is a time to honor the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities in the United States. This month-long celebration highlights the diversity within these communities, encompassing a wide range of countries, traditions, and experiences.
The essence of Kinship Awareness Month is a reminder to appreciate the bonds that tie us all together. Kinship is all about those connections that make us feel at home. It's not just about parents, siblings, and cousins; it's about the people who understand us, who have been there through thick and thin, and who support us no matter what.
For children in the foster care system—particularly Black children who are disproportionately represented—Black History Month holds profound significance. it’s a celebration of culture, resilience, and the innumerable contributions of Black individuals to our society. It provides an opportunity to affirm identity, foster pride, and bridge gaps in understanding.
Our child's journey is unique, it takes a special kind of caregiver/parent to navigate the complexities of childhood trauma and bring forth the healing power of connection and understanding. Welcome to "T.I.P.S by Foster Kinship," This podcast focuses on discussing trauma-informed parenting strategies to help our children thrive beyond their past adverse experiences. Join your host, Michelle Rupe, TBRI® Practitioner and passionate advocate for trauma-informed approaches.
Episode 24 - 4 Minutes, 45 Seconds
One of the most common questions I get asked is Why is the word No such a trigger word for our children who come from a background of trauma? It is important to discuss this so that we can understand that many times this is not so much willful disobedience as it is a survival response.
Episode 23 - 6 Minutes, 52 Seconds
Join us this month to unpack how the brain can be shaped by experiences, which systems of the brain trigger the challenging behaviors that we see in children, and how we can use relationships to nurture change behavior. If we understand how a child's brain works, we can respond with more patience and more confidence!
Episode 22 - 4 Minutes, 51 Seconds
In this episode, we dive into a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of childhood trauma—why connection, the very thing that helps children heal, can sometimes feel unsafe to them. We explore the science behind trust, the impact of past experiences on a child’s ability to form healthy relationships, and practical ways caregivers can create a safe space for connection. Whether you're a parent, educator, or caregiver, this episode will equip you with insights and tools to support children in their journey toward feeling truly safe to connect.
Episode 21 - 6 Minutes, 17 Seconds
In honor of Black History Month, this episode takes a dive into the intersection of Black history and the child welfare system. We explore the historical inequities that have disproportionately impacted Black families, the resilience of communities advocating for change, and the trailblazers working to reform the system today. From overrepresentation in foster care to the power of kinship caregiving, we’ll discuss the past, present, and future of child welfare through a lens of justice and empowerment. Join us for a conversation that sheds light on systemic challenges while celebrating the strength and perseverance of Black families.
Episode 20 - 7 Minutes, 50 Seconds
In this powerful episode, we delve into the complexities of substance use disorder and its impact on families. Listeners will gain practical tools and compassionate insights into helping children heal from the emotional wounds of parental substance use disorder. Whether you're a caregiver, educator, or advocate, this episode offers actionable steps to create safe, supportive environments where children can process their pain, build resilience, and find hope for a brighter future.
Episode 18 - 6 Minutes, 5 Seconds
In this heartwarming and uplifting episode, we're shining a spotlight on the Glimmer Moments that make the journey of kinship caregiving so special. Whether you're a grandparent, aunt, uncle, or family friend stepping in to raise a child, we know it's a path filled with both challenges and unexpected joys. Join us as we celebrate the little victories and explore practical tips for finding those bright spots in everyday life. From the first time you see that spark of understanding in their eyes, to the small wins that make all the effort worth it—it is all about recognizing the moments that make your heart glow. Tune in for some laughter, connection, and a reminder that even on the toughest days, there’s always a bit of light to be found!
Episode 17 - 4 Minutes, 55 Seconds
In this heartwarming and special episode, we shine a spotlight on the everyday superheroes who don’t wear flashy capes, but instead wield the power of bedtime stories, emergency hugs, and an endless supply of patience—kinship caregivers! These unsung heroes step up when life takes unexpected twists, providing love, stability, and family when it’s needed most. Whether they're grandparents, aunts, uncles, or family friends, their secret superpower? Keeping home in the family. Take a listen to see how you can continue to support Foster Kinship's mission to strengthen kinship caregivers’ capacity to provide safe, stable, and nurturing homes to 30,000 Nevada children in Kinship Care.
Episode 16 - 12 Minutes, 38 Seconds
In this episode, we dive into the unique challenges and rewards of raising children with ADHD and Autism. We'll explore how to better understand their needs, communicate effectively, and create supportive environments that foster growth and resilience. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or educator, this conversation offers practical insights and compassionate guidance to help you navigate this journey with confidence.
Episode 15 - 5 Minutes, 38 Seconds
In this episode, we dive into the importance of child and parent visitations and their vital role in nurturing connections. Visitations can be challenging for caregivers, the child, and even the parents. This week, we provide strategies to help manage expectations and emotions and learn why visitations can be helpful to healing.
Episode 14 - 6 Minutes, 43 Seconds
In this episode, we will learn how to turn chaos into calm! Discover practical strategies to help your family find peace and balance amidst the daily hustle and bustle. Whether you're navigating toddler tantrums, teen turbulence, or simply seeking a more harmonious home, we've got you covered. Tune in and transform your family life one episode at a time.
Episode 13 - 4 Minutes, 51 Seconds
In this insightful episode, we dive deep into the wisdom of Dr. Bruce Perry, a renowned child psychiatrist and expert on brain development, to explore how parents and caregivers can nurture a child's learning brain. Dr. Perry’s groundbreaking work emphasizes the importance of relational health, emotional safety, and structured environments in fostering cognitive growth. Join us as we discuss practical strategies to create enriching, supportive experiences that enhance your child's ability to learn and thrive. Whether you're a caregiver, parent, teacher, or simply interested in child development, this episode offers invaluable tips to help you unlock your child's full potential.
Episode 12 - 6 Minutes, 31 Seconds
Join us as we explore the delicate dance of caregiving, where structure meets nurture in a beautiful symphony. In this episode, we dive into ten practical strategies and heartfelt insights to strike the perfect balance between providing guidance and love.
Episode 11 - 3 Minutes, 56 Seconds
In this episode, we dive into understanding Brain-First Parenting, the innovative approach that prioritizes understanding the needs of our children and their developing brains! Listen to explore how Brain-First Parenting can help us investigate, what's really happening behind that tantrum. From nurturing secure attachments to promoting resilience and problem-solving skills, this episode offers insights and tips for supporting healthy brain development in your children.
Episode 10 - 4 Minutes, 10 Seconds
Get ready for a heartwarming ride in this episode as we dive into the extraordinary world of social work, where compassion meets transformation! Join us as we unpack the power of social workers working their magic with children and families, turning challenges into triumphs.
Episode 9 - 5 Minutes, 53 Seconds
In this episode, we dive into the world of screen time use and the importance of setting limits and boundaries with our children. From navigating the challenges of digital distractions to fostering healthy habits, we'll explore practical strategies for finding balance in an increasingly tech-driven world.
Episode 8 - 4 Minutes, 10 Seconds
Unlock the secret language of your body with our latest episode on interoception! Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of internal sensations and explore how tuning into your body's signals can lead to a deeper understanding of emotions, well-being, and self-discovery. It's time to turn up the volume on your internal dialogue and embark on a journey of mindfulness.
Episode 7 - 5 Minutes, 23 Seconds
In this episode, we delve into understanding Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). Join us as we explore the complexities of FASD, sharing personal stories, expert insights, and practical tips for navigating the parenting journey.
Episode 6 - 3 Minutes, 41 Seconds
In this episode, we discuss the sensitive realm of childhood trauma and its intricate relationship with selective eating habits. Join us as we navigate the intersection of trauma and picky eating, providing insights and practical tips for nurturing resilient, nourishing connections for children on their journey toward a healthier relationship with food.
Episode 5 - 6 Minutes, 34 Seconds
In this week's episode, we're diving headfirst into the world of parenting with a focus on empowering your children to set healthy boundaries. We've got 10 powerful strategies that'll transform your kids into boundary-setting pros!
Episode 4 - 5 Minutes, 14 Seconds
Glimmer moments are those fleeting sparks that illuminate our lives, reminding us of the beauty in every day. They're the small instances of joy, connection, and inspiration that renew our spirits and enrich our journey. In a world bustling with chaos, embracing these glimmers is a powerful reminder that life's true treasures often reside in the simplest of moments.
Episode 3 - 5 Minutes, 23 Seconds
In this episode we discuss systemic trauma in Kinship Care. Systems issues are often an additional layer of trauma that children and families have on-top of relational traumas, abuse and/or neglect, substance exposures, and more. It is vitally important to assess it's impacts on children and families, and how we can begin untangling the impacts on vulnerable families.
Episode 2 - 5 Minutes, 29 Seconds
In the realm of child welfare, a whisper can ignite a revolution, a letter can cause a ripple effect to positive change, and a single voice can shape a child's outcomes. In this episode "Voices of Change," we discuss the extraordinary power of advocacy in safeguarding the well-being and future for children from vulnerable places.
Episode 1 - 11 Minutes, 47 Seconds
It's a brain thing! When children, 'flip their lid' it is how their brain sends messages in different sections of the brain about how their bodies are experiencing BIG feelings. This episodes dives into understanding what is causing the distress and how triggers have activated, fight, flight, or freeze response and how we can help our children to re-engage with feeling calm, safe, and relaxed.