This episode of Beneath the Branches focuses on the initial stages of adoption and foster care, emphasizing the importance of setting realistic expectations, fostering attachment, and creating a nurturing environment for newly placed children. The conversation covers essential topics such as cocooning, sleep challenges, nutrition, building trust, and managing transitions to daycare or school. It also highlights the significance of understanding behavioral challenges and cultural considerations that may arise during the adjustment period. The first 6 months sets a foundation for attachment for future success. This season, we'll focus on helping you make the most of this pivotal time!

For more information, please visit our website at www.adoptionfosterclinic.org

In this special episode of Beneath the Branches, we welcome Show Hope’s Executive Director, Kristin Parks, and Director of Programs, Justin Myers—leaders of an organization dedicated to breaking down barriers to adoption and equipping families with the support they need to thrive.

Together, we explore their personal journeys into the adoption constellation, what makes working with Show Hope unique, and the heart behind their mission. They share practical insight into the challenges adoptive, foster, and kinship families face today, how Show Hope is responding, and the one thing they most want families to know. Whether you’re a parent, a professional, or simply passionate about making a difference, you’ll leave this conversation inspired by the power of hope in action—and equipped with ways you can be part of the story.

We are always grateful for our partner, Show Hope, who made our podcast possible! They have done so much for our mission and our families, providing Adoption Aid Grants, Pre+Post Adoption Support, Medical Care Grants, Advocacy. Learn more about their incredible mission at www.showhope.org.

When kids “act out,” what if it’s not manipulation—but communication? In this conversation, our Adoption & Foster Care Clinic team unpacks why co-regulation must come before correction, how to parent to emotional age (not just chronological), and how understanding the window of tolerance can transform your home. You’ll hear practical steps, gentle scripts, and real-life examples of repair, attunement, and modeling calm when your child can’t find theirs.

🌿 Learn more: adoptionfosterclinic.org
💛 Give to support families: adoptionfosterclinic.org/give
Thank you to our sponsor, Show Hope.

What you'll learn:

• Behavior as communication: seeing the need beneath the behavior

• Why connection is not the opposite of correction—it’s the tool for correction

• Co-regulation, emotional age vs. chronological age, and realistic expectations

• Window of tolerance (hypo/hyperarousal) and how to bring kids back into it

• Scripts parents can use in the heat of the moment + the power of repair

• Grounding ideas (breath, cold water, safe touch), tone/eyes/face, and modeling