- They Are Not Problems to Be Fixed"When a child struggles, we have to ask a different question: What is this child trying to communicate? Not: What’s wrong with them? But: What do they need right now? > Many of our children—especially those impacted by adoption, foster care, and kinship care—carry invisible stories of loss and uncertainty. Their bodies remember what their words often cannot express. We must remember that regulation is not a reward—it’s a prerequisite. Healing doesn’t happen in a single session; it happens in the rhythm of everyday life through repeated, positive experiences that build new pathways of safety and belonging."
- The Quiet Power of PartnershipAdolescence is a season of expanding independence — but for teenagers with disrupted attachment histories, connection remains central. When caregivers and school professionals communicate openly and consistently, stability strengthens and growth unfolds with greater confidence. Partnership between home and school does more than support behavior; it reinforces permanency, trust, and the secure base adolescents still need.
- Veronica’s StoryVeronica’s Story Veronica’s feeding journey as told by Jill Rabin, a licensed speech-language pathologist with deep expertise in early development, attachment, and feeding/communication. Sometimes joyful engagement with food is the priority in therapy versus oral intake. Veronica, age 20 months adjusted. She has struggled with self-limiting, vomiting and weight gain… Read more: Veronica’s Story
- Nora and Leon’s StoryOur Family’s Adoption Story: Guided by Love and Loss Adoption has always been in our hearts. After having three biological children, we felt called to grow our family through adoption. Our journey ultimately began after the heartbreaking loss of our oldest daughter, Kathleen, in 2023 from complications of a rare… Read more: Nora and Leon’s Story
- Kate’s StoryCommunities That Understand Their Stories Children who are adopted—whether through foster care or directly into families—need more than homes; they need communities and schools that understand their stories. Parenting an adopted child begins with humility: the courage to admit you don’t know everything. That simple truth opens the door to… Read more: Kate’s Story
Parent & Caregiver FAQ 2025 – Senate Bill 1560
Beginning in 2027, Illinois schools will offer annual mental health screenings for students in grades 3–12. This FAQ answers parents’ and caregivers’ top questions—what the law requires, how the screenings will work, and what families can expect.
Shaping Policy that Heals – September 2025
Illinois will soon require annual mental health screenings for students in grades 3–12. Done well, this could be life-changing. But for adoptive, foster, and kinship families, screenings must be trauma-informed and adoption-competent to truly help. Here’s why this new mandate is both a reason for hope—and a call for care.
Understanding Prenatal Alcohol & Substance Exposure:
Understanding Prenatal Alcohol & Substance Exposure: Why Typical Caregiving Strategies Often Fall Short Over the years, I have met some of the most dedicated, loving,
Parenting Without a Complete Map
Parenting children with FASD often means navigating unknowns. With incomplete histories and invisible challenges, caregivers may live in constant uncertainty. This article explores how awareness, compassion, and adaptability can shift the focus from frustration to connection—supporting children no matter what’s in their file.
From the Founder – September 2025
From the Founder – September 2025 As we step into September and a new school year, I’m reminded of both the opportunities and challenges that
The Missing Link in School Attendance:
The Missing Link in School Attendance: Why Connection Matters More Than Ever By Laura AdamsPresident & Founder, iCARE4 Adoptive And Foster Families Chronic Absenteeism: Still
