The Kinship Connection” | Podcast on RSS.com

The Kinship Connection”

The Kinship Connection”

by Janice Johnson

Kids & Family Relationships

Season 1

Episode 17 — “Beyond the Classroom: Building Bridges Between Teachers and Kinship Caregivers.”

In Episode 17, Jan Johnson and Stephanie Bressler Ratcliffe are joined by guest teachers Valerie & Lisa to discuss the unique challenges kinship families may face in the school setting and how caregivers and educators can work together to better understand and support the children in their care.

Episode 16 “Back to School Bash: Gearing for a Successful School Year”

“Back to School Bash: Gearing for a Successful School Year” The backpacks are packed, the pencils are sharpened, and a brand-new school year is just around the corner! 🎉 Join Jan & Stephanie as they discuss practical tips, helpful strategies, and encouragement to help children and families start the school year confident, prepared, and ready to thrive! 💙 From getting organized and establishing routines to supporting academic success and creating a positive mindset, Jan & Stephanie share ideas to help caregivers and children gear up for a successful school year.

Episode 15 “Breaking the Old Rules”

In this episode, Jan Johnson and Stephanie Bressler Ratcliffe explore why traditional parenting and discipline methods may not meet the needs of children who have experienced trauma, loss, or major life changes. We discuss letting go of outdated expectations, responding to behavior with greater understanding, and creating new family rules built on connection, consistency, safety, and trust.

Episode 14 "Future in the Making"

Every loving choice we make today helps shape a child’s tomorrow. In this inspiring episode, Jan Johnson and Stephanie Bressler Ratcliffe welcome special guest Senta Kline for a heartfelt conversation about guiding children toward a future filled with hope, confidence, and possibility.

Episode 13: "Cultivating Growth"

In this episode, kinship grandmothers Jan Johnson and Stephanie Bressler Ratcliffe explore how we can nurture growth in the children we love while continuing to grow ourselves as caregivers. Together, they discuss how patience, encouragement, resilience, and hope can help children heal from trauma and discover their strengths.

Episode 11 "Paths to Possibilities"

Every kinship caregiving journey begins with unexpected challenges—but it doesn't end there. In this uplifting episode of The Kinship Connection, Jan Johnson and Stephanie Bressler Ratcliffe explore how caregivers can move beyond simply surviving and begin creating new possibilities for themselves and the children in their care. Together, they discuss finding hope after heartbreak, celebrating small victories, building resilience, discovering community resources, and helping children dream about their future despite past trauma. Because every step forward—no matter how small—is a path toward healing.

Episode 10 "Taking Care of Me"

In this heartfelt episode, hosts Jan Johnson and Stephanie Bressler Ratcliffe discuss why self-care isn't selfish—it's essential. From managing stress and avoiding caregiver burnout to finding simple moments of peace, they share practical ideas and personal experiences that remind us an emotionally healthy caregiver is better equipped to provide the love, stability, and support our children need.

Episode 9 "Where Family & Friends Gather"

In this heartfelt episode, kinship grandmothers Jan Johnson and Stephanie Bressler Ratcliffe explore the importance of building a community of support for both caregivers and the children in their care. They discuss creating traditions that bring families together, welcoming trusted friends into your circle, and making connections with others so that every child feels safe, valued, and loved.

Episode 8 "Celebrating the Seasons: Summer Splash"

Summer is here, and on this episode of Kinship Connection, hosts Stephanie Bressler Ratcliffe & Jan Johnson are diving into all things summer! Being a kinship caregiver doesn't take a vacation when school lets out. Summer can bring unique challenges, but it also creates opportunities to build memories, strengthen bonds, and celebrate the special moments that make family so meaningful. Kinship caregivers play a vital role in providing stability, connection, and nurturing relationships for the children in their care.

Episode 7: "Kinship Rocks"

Episode 7: "Kinship Rocks" Kinship caregiving isn't always easy, but one thing is certain—Kinship Rocks! In this uplifting episode, hosts Jan Johnson and Stephanie Bressler Ratcliffe celebrate the incredible strength, resilience, and dedication of kinship caregivers. From overcoming challenges to creating stable, loving homes for children, kinship caregivers are making a difference every single day.

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