We’ve all seen them. Parents who refuse to let their kids fail – and then overstep boundaries with the adults in charge. Maybe a little. Too often… Read more “Don’t Call Me A Helicopter Parent”
Category: Self-Advocacy
The Day My Son Michael Taught 500 Students about Respect
I can’t do it. After 50+ high school and college presentations with my sons Andrew and Michael – without incident, I immediately knew something was wrong. … Read more “The Day My Son Michael Taught 500 Students about Respect”
23 Years After the Fetal Alcohol Diagnosis
A public health crisis off the radar. 1973. A group of pediatricians and psychiatrists at the University of Washington Medical School publish their findings in a British… Read more “23 Years After the Fetal Alcohol Diagnosis”
Trauma in the Real World
Everyone loves a good story. Ones that are personal. Authentic. They open our hearts. They allow us to break down walls. And they can change our perspective… Read more “Trauma in the Real World”
Fixing the Broken Children Welfare System
When I recently blogged about foster care, hundreds of comments erupted – with insightful and compelling thoughts. I compiled the best, sorted for universal themes, lightly edited… Read more “Fixing the Broken Children Welfare System”
When Schools Refuse to “Get” Trauma
For four years my young-adult daughter Ashley and I worked with a reporter from The Indianapolis Star. Our goal was simple – an accurate, in-depth story about… Read more “When Schools Refuse to “Get” Trauma”
To Further Understanding, A Brave Trauma Survivor Bears All
Rarely does the media thoroughly investigate childhood trauma – especially in relation to survivors. Too often the emphasis starts and stops with the perpetrator. Survivors are rarely… Read more “To Further Understanding, A Brave Trauma Survivor Bears All”
From Molestation Victim to Advocate: Silent No More
Too often stories of childhood sexual abuse remain untold – for years. Early in my adoption journey, I realized the importance of telling my family’s story. That… Read more “From Molestation Victim to Advocate: Silent No More”
My Child Struggles: How Much to Share?
With a new school year around the corner, most parents can’t wait for the return to structure and routine – from which kids benefit. But parents also… Read more “My Child Struggles: How Much to Share?”
Evolution of the Angry Teen
I expected a little teenage “attitude” during my adoption journey – but never the level of anger seen in five of my six children. Over-the-top. Aggressive. Anti-social.… Read more “Evolution of the Angry Teen”