Every Child Belongs

Kim talks with Brian Mavis, co-founder of America's Kids Belong, about foster care and why families are the key to changing long-term outcomes for kids from hard places. Brian shares his family's journey into foster care, how America's Kids Belong grew from storytelling and advocacy to recruiting and retaining foster families, and what communities can do to better support the families who say yes. Brian also unpacks his new book, Upstream: Diving into Foster Care to Heal 10 Social Wounds, explaining how foster care is connected to many of the challenges communities work hard to address later, including homelessness, trafficking vulnerability, addiction, and incarceration. They close with practical ideas for churches, including wraparound support and regular respite nights that help families stay strong and stay in the game. "Upstream: Diving into Foster Care to Heal 10 Social Wounds" by Brian Mavis https://amzn.to/4qx8i25 "Boundless Hope for Every Child: Help for the Hurting, Compassion for the Misunderstood, Belonging for the Lonely" by Kim Botto https://amzn.to/3Utuw6V (affiliate links) Every Child Belongs explores how we can create spaces where every child feels heard and valued, whether neurodivergent, differently abled, or they've experienced trauma. We'll hear from educators, parents, professionals, and more. Kim Botto is an adoptive mom, grandma, an advocate for kids and teens with disabilities, as well as a long-time leader of kids in student ministries.

Dr. Erik Carter joins Every Child Belongs to talk about what belonging really means for families impacted by disability and why churches must move beyond accessibility to genuine relationships. Erik is a professor at Baylor University and Executive Director of the Baylor Center for Disability and Flourishing. He shares how friendships with young adults with developmental disabilities shaped his faith and his life's work, and why ministry must be with people, not for them. Kim and Erik discuss research showing that nearly half of families of children with disabilities have left their church because their child wasn't welcomed or included. They explore the "10 dimensions of belonging," what intentional churches do differently, and practical ways churches can support families not only on Sundays but throughout the week. The episode closes with encouragement for leaders who feel overwhelmed and a reminder that creating belonging is central to the gospel. "Boundless Hope for Every Child: Help for the Hurting, Compassion for the Misunderstood, Belonging for the Lonely" by Kim Botto https://amzn.to/3Utuw6V (affiliate links) Every Child Belongs explores how we can create spaces where every child feels heard and valued, whether neurodivergent, differently abled, or they've experienced trauma. We'll hear from educators, parents, professionals, and more. Kim Botto is an adoptive mom, grandma, an advocate for kids and teens with disabilities, as well as a long-time leader of kids in student ministries.

It's the one-year anniversary of Every Child Belongs and this episode flips the script. With Dave kicking things off, Kim Botto reflects on what the past year has meant, what surprised her most, and what she's learned from conversations with educators, therapists, parents, and advocates. You'll hear the biggest themes that kept showing up across the season: why proximity matters, why behavior is often misunderstood, why listening is so closely tied to love, and why adults have a responsibility to stay in the game longer than feels comfortable. Kim and Dave also talk about the power of community for families who feel isolated, the importance of offering specific help, and the hope-filled truth that change is possible through both neuroplasticity and the renewing of the mind. If you serve kids in any capacity, this recap will help you focus on what matters most: creating spaces where kids can be fully themselves, find their people, and experience real belonging. "Boundless Hope for Every Child: Help for the Hurting, Compassion for the Misunderstood, Belonging for the Lonely" by Kim Botto https://amzn.to/3Utuw6V (affiliate links) Every Child Belongs explores how we can create spaces where every child feels heard and valued, whether neurodivergent, differently abled, or they've experienced trauma. We'll hear from educators, parents, professionals, and more. Kim Botto is an adoptive mom, grandma, an advocate for kids and teens with disabilities, as well as a long-time leader of kids in student ministries.

In this episode of Every Child Belongs, host Kim Botto sits down with licensed mental health counselor, registered play therapist, and author Brianna Edwards. Brianna shares how play can become one of the most powerful tools we have for helping kids feel safe, connected, and understood. She explains why play is a child's natural language, how adults can use it to disarm fear and build connection, and why behaviors often have deeper stories underneath the surface. Kim and Brianna talk about practical ways parents, teachers, and church leaders can support kids with big feelings or confusing needs—even when we don't have all the answers. From creating sensory-friendly spaces, to practicing repair after conflict, to helping siblings feel seen, the conversation is full of gentle wisdom and real-life strategies. Brianna also shares her personal story of growing up with her brother Nathaniel, who had complex medical needs, and how that experience inspired her new children's book, The Little Roo Who Stuffed Her Stuff, which helps kids express emotions they might otherwise hide. If you want to better understand kids, support families, or create environments where every child truly belongs, this episode offers hope, insight, and practical next steps.  Get Brianna's book: "The Little Roo Who Stuffed Her Stuff" on Amazon https://a.co/d/3WiXSSt "Boundless Hope for Every Child: Help for the Hurting, Compassion for the Misunderstood, Belonging for the Lonely" by Kim Botto https://amzn.to/3Utuw6V (affiliate links) Every Child Belongs explores how we can create spaces where every child feels heard and valued, whether neurodivergent, differently abled, or they've experienced trauma. We'll hear from educators, parents, professionals, and more. Kim Botto is an adoptive mom, grandma, an advocate for kids and teens with disabilities, as well as a long-time leader of kids in student ministries.

What happens when years of serving families affected by disability suddenly becomes your story too? In this heartfelt conversation, Kim Botto sits down with Jenni Von Tobel, longtime disability ministry leader at Willow Creek Community Church and mom of five, including her youngest daughter, Everly Rose, who has Down syndrome. Jenni shares how becoming a parent on "the other side of the table" transformed her approach to ministry—from advocacy to invitation, from teaching inclusion to living it. She reflects on celebrating life in the face of a diagnosis, what families really need to hear, and how proximity—not programs—changes hearts. Together, Kim and Jenni explore practical ways churches can move from presence to belonging: creating sensory-friendly spaces, training volunteers, and supporting siblings who are often overlooked. Jenni also offers encouraging advice for church leaders who feel unprepared, reminding them that the barriers are smaller than they think—and the impact far greater. Whether you're a ministry leader, volunteer, or parent, this episode will inspire you to see every child—and every family—as a vital part of the church community where every child truly belongs. "Boundless Hope for Every Child" by Kim Botto Boundless Hope for Every Child: Help for the Hurting, Compassion for the Misunderstood, Belonging for the Lonely (affiliate link) Every Child Belongs explores how we can create spaces where every child feels heard and valued, whether neurodivergent, differently abled, or they've experienced trauma. We'll hear from educators, parents, professionals, and more. Kim Botto is an adoptive mom, grandma, an advocate for kids and teens with disabilities, as well as a long-time leader of kids in student ministries.

In this episode of Every Child Belongs, host Kim Botto welcomes bestselling author, counselor, and podcast host Sissy Goff. With over 30 years of counseling experience, Sissy is known for her calming presence and practical wisdom in helping kids and parents navigate the challenges of today's world. Together, Kim and Sissy explore why anxiety is on the rise in both kids and parents, and how adults can respond with empathy, hope, and practical tools instead of dismissing or overreacting. Sissy shares strategies like "chunking" overwhelming situations into smaller steps, practicing calming techniques, and creating safe spaces where kids feel seen and understood. The conversation also dives into faith, parenting, and leadership. Sissy explains how spiritual conversations can be both grounding and real—without minimizing the pain kids face—and how adults can model resilience by doing their own emotional work. She reminds us that one of the best gifts we can give kids is being the calmest presence in the room. You'll also hear Sissy's thoughts on building emotionally safe churches, teaching kids kindness in peer relationships, and practical ways leaders can help kids grow in confidence and capability. Her wisdom offers encouragement for parents, caregivers, and anyone who wants to make the church—and the world—a safer place for every child. Learn more about Sissy and Raising Boys & Girls here: https://www.raisingboysandgirls.com/ "Boundless Hope for Every Child: Help for the Hurting, Compassion for the Misunderstood, Belonging for the Lonely" by Kim Botto https://amzn.to/3Utuw6V (affiliate links)  Every Child Belongs explores how we can create spaces where every child feels heard and valued, whether neurodivergent, differently abled, or they've experienced trauma. We'll hear from educators, parents, professionals, and more. Kim Botto is an adoptive mom, grandma, an advocate for kids and teens with disabilities, as well as a long-time leader of kids in student ministries.

In this episode of Every Child Belongs, host Kim Botto welcomes Camille Robinson, host of the Moments of Joy podcast and soon-to-be published author with Penguin Random House. Camille shares her story as a mother of five, including her son Maison, who was born with a congenital heart condition and later diagnosed with autism and an intellectual disability. Camille opens up about the challenges and joys of parenting children with special needs, from navigating IEPs and medical interventions to advocating for inclusion in schools and churches. She talks about how her experiences reshaped her view of motherhood and inspired her to become a voice for other families walking a similar path. Faith is central to Camille's journey. She describes how prayer, scripture, and honesty about her struggles give her strength—and how she integrates that faith into her parenting by writing Bible verses in Maison's backpack or fighting for music therapy that helps him communicate. Camille reminds listeners that while this road isn't easy, no parent is alone. Together, Kim and Camille discuss the importance of community, the role of churches in creating space for every child, and the everyday acts of kindness that help families feel seen. Camille's story is a powerful call for compassion, understanding, and advocacy—both inside and outside the church. "Boundless Hope for Every Child" by Kim Botto Boundless Hope for Every Child: Help for the Hurting, Compassion for the Misunderstood, Belonging for the Lonely (affiliate links) Every Child Belongs explores how we can create spaces where every child feels heard and valued, whether neurodivergent, differently abled, or they've experienced trauma. We'll hear from educators, parents, professionals, and more. Kim Botto is an adoptive mom, grandma, an advocate for kids and teens with disabilities, as well as a long-time leader of kids in student ministries.

What happens when the Church shows up for those who often go unseen? In this powerful conversation, Kim sits down with Jami Kaeb (mom of eight and founder of the Forgotten Initiative) to explore how churches can truly come alongside foster families, kids, and especially the often-forgotten caseworkers who hold the system together. Jami shares the story of how God transformed her family's view of adoption and foster care, how a simple "yes" led to a national movement, and why supporting those behind the scenes is one of the most impactful things the Church can do. This episode is full of practical ways we can love our neighbors and create communities where every child—and every worker—belongs. "Boundless Hope for Every Child" by Kim Botto https://amzn.to/3Uj0MKg (affiliate links) Every Child Belongs explores how we can create spaces where every child feels heard and valued, whether neurodivergent, differently abled, or they've experienced trauma. We'll hear from educators, parents, professionals, and more. Kim Botto is an adoptive mom, grandma, an advocate for kids and teens with disabilities, as well as a long-time leader of kids in student ministries.

What if the Church wasn't just a place where kids with disabilities were cared for—but discipled, included, and seen as indispensable?   In this inspiring episode, Kim Botto talks with Ellie Axford, Director of Embrace Special Needs Ministry at Brentwood Baptist in Nashville. Ellie shares how a ministry that started with four kids and a closet has grown into a thriving, full-spectrum program that includes worship, discipleship, and lifelong support.   You'll hear powerful stories of reverse inclusion, church leadership buy-in, baptisms, and practical advice for churches just starting their journey. Whether you're a ministry leader or a parent, this episode will leave you encouraged and equipped to build a church where every child belongs.   "Boundless Hope for Every Child" by Kim Botto https://amzn.to/3Uj0MKg (affiliate links)   Every Child Belongs explores how we can create spaces where every child feels heard and valued, whether neurodivergent, differently abled, or they've experienced trauma. We'll hear from educators, parents, professionals, and more. Kim Botto is an adoptive mom, grandma, an advocate for kids and teens with disabilities, as well as a long-time leader of kids in student ministries.

Jen Kendall on identity, parenting, public spaces, and raising kind kids. In this episode of Every Child Belongs, Kim Botto talks with longtime friend, mom, and creative leader Jen Kendall. As a little person, Jen offers an honest look at what it's like to navigate everyday life—and parent—in a world that often overlooks people with different bodies. She shares real stories about public spaces, awkward interactions, and helping her kids understand and embrace who they are. With humor and practical insight, Jen gives helpful ideas for how to raise kids who are curious, kind, and comfortable around people who are different from them. You'll hear why small things—like saying "Can you say hi?"—can shift an entire moment, and how calling out the beauty in difference (without pity) builds true belonging. This conversation is honest, relatable, and full of helpful takeaways for anyone who wants to create more inclusive spaces at church, in the community, or at home. Jen's Spark Talk https://youtu.be/6EKFC4E7pgQ?feature=shared "Boundless Hope for Every Child" by Kim Botto https://amzn.to/3Uj0MKg (affiliate links) Every Child Belongs explores how we can create spaces where every child feels heard and valued, whether neurodivergent, differently abled, or they've experienced trauma. We'll hear from educators, parents, professionals, and more. Kim Botto is an adoptive mom, grandma, an advocate for kids and teens with disabilities, as well as a long-time leader of kids in student ministries.

What do you do when a child's behavior feels overwhelming—or misunderstood? In this honest and practical conversation, Dr. Chinwé Williams—licensed therapist, speaker, and author of Calm, Courageous, and Connected—joins Kim Botto to talk about how we can better support neurodivergent kids and their families in everyday spaces. "Calm, Courageous, and Connected: A Parent's Guide to Raising Emotionally Resilient Kids" by Dr. Chinwé Williams https://amzn.to/45bU5Q6 Chinwé shares her personal story as a mom of a child diagnosed with autism, the impact of being seen and unseen in faith communities, and how adults can respond when emotions run high. You'll walk away with insight, empathy, and practical steps for creating spaces where every child belongs. "Boundless Hope for Every Child: Help for the Hurting, Compassion for the Misunderstood, Belonging for the Lonely" by Kim Botto https://amzn.to/3Uj0MKg (affiliate link) Every Child Belongs explores how we can create spaces where every child feels heard and valued, whether neurodivergent, differently abled, or they've experienced trauma. We'll hear from educators, parents, professionals, and more. Kim Botto is an adoptive mom, grandma, an advocate for kids and teens with disabilities, as well as a long-time leader of kids in student ministries.

On this episode, Kim Botto welcomes licensed clinical social worker Daniela Coats—founder of With Siblings and a powerful advocate for birth children in foster and adoptive families. Daniela brings a deeply personal and professional perspective, having grown up as a "bio kid" in a foster family and now parenting children through both birth and adoption. She's also the author of a beautiful children's book, The Day Lily Turned Uninvisible, which shines a light on a group often overlooked in caregiving spaces: the biological children in foster and adoptive homes. Daniela shares how growing up with foster siblings shaped her identity and led to moments of feeling invisible—not just at home, but also in church and community spaces. She recalls the emotional confusion and social challenges of adapting to new family dynamics, often without guidance or validation. These early experiences sparked a passion to make sure bio kids don't feel left out or silenced in the midst of their family's calling to foster or adopt. In the conversation, Kim and Daniela explore practical ways families, churches, and caregivers can better support biological children. Whether it's giving bio kids space to express their feelings, empowering them with language to navigate difficult conversations, or simply remembering to include them in prayers, gifts, or church programming, Daniela offers compassionate, insightful ideas for honoring every child's voice. If your family fosters, adopts, or supports families who do, this episode is essential listening. Daniela's perspective reminds us that seeing every child—adopted, fostered, or biological—builds stronger families and more compassionate communities. Her wisdom will help churches and caregivers create a culture where no one feels unseen. "Boundless Hope for Every Child" by Kim Botto https://amzn.to/3Uj0MKg (affiliate links) Every Child Belongs explores how we can create spaces where every child feels heard and valued, whether neurodivergent, differently abled, or they've experienced trauma. We'll hear from educators, parents, professionals, and more. Kim Botto is an adoptive mom, grandma, an advocate for kids and teens with disabilities, as well as a long-time leader of kids in student ministries.

In this episode of Every Child Belongs, Kim Botto talks with entrepreneur and dad Chris Heslip, founder of PushPay and CEO of Amazing Life. Chris shares how his passion for creating welcoming church spaces for all kids stems from personal experience—raising two sons, one with ADHD and the other with autism. Through vulnerability and vision, Chris opens up about the grief, learning, and breakthroughs that shaped his family's journey and deepened his commitment to inclusive ministry. Chris and Kim discuss the practical and emotional challenges families face when their children are neurodivergent. From being turned away at churches to finding joy in small acts of kindness, Chris shares powerful stories that reveal the urgent need for empathy, preparation, and thoughtful ministry environments. They also explore how churches can innovate—not by chasing trends, but by doing the basics exceptionally well. Whether it's a simple buddy system, sensory-friendly accommodations, or just remembering a child's name, Chris offers inspiring, actionable insight for any leader who wants to better serve every family who walks through the doors. If you've ever wondered how to make church feel like home for kids who learn, feel, or behave differently, this episode will challenge and encourage you with a renewed sense of mission. Amazing Life EveryChild Free Course and Curriculum https://www.joinamazing.com/EveryChild "Boundless Hope for Every Child" by Kim Botto https://amzn.to/3Uj0MKg (affiliate links) Every Child Belongs explores how we can create spaces where every child feels heard and valued, whether neurodivergent, differently abled, or they've experienced trauma. We'll hear from educators, parents, professionals, and more. Kim Botto is an adoptive mom, grandma, an advocate for kids and teens with disabilities, as well as a long-time leader of kids in student ministries.

In this episode of Every Child Belongs, Kim Botto welcomes Dr. Steve Grcevich, a child and adolescent psychiatrist and founder of Key Ministry. With decades of experience and a deep passion for inclusion, Dr. Steve shares his journey from medical practice to ministry, focusing on helping churches welcome families impacted by hidden disabilities and mental health conditions. Dr. Steve unpacks eye-opening data showing that families raising children with mental health challenges—like anxiety, ADHD, and autism—are significantly less likely to attend church. He explains the barriers these families face, from stigma and social isolation to sensory processing issues and previous negative church experiences. Together, Kim and Dr. Steve explore practical steps churches can take to become more welcoming, inclusive spaces where every child and family can belong. You'll hear actionable ideas rooted in compassion, research, and lived experience—whether you're a church leader, parent, or advocate. Discover how small changes in your church culture and environment can have a lasting impact on families who need it most—and why this work is not just important, but a calling. Key Ministry https://keyministry.org/ "Boundless Hope for Every Child" by Kim Botto https://amzn.to/3Uj0MKg (affiliate links) Every Child Belongs explores how we can create spaces where every child feels heard and valued, whether neurodivergent, differently abled, or they've experienced trauma. We'll hear from educators, parents, professionals, and more. Kim Botto is an adoptive mom, grandma, an advocate for kids and teens with disabilities, as well as a long-time leader of kids in student ministries.

It's the summer! Our routines change, the way we do things change, and so we're changing up Every Child Belongs for the month of July with a couple of mini-episodes.  When we started this podcast in January 2025, one in 36 kids were being diagnosed with autism. Just a few months ago, the CDC, Center for Disease Control, released new research which shows that one in 31 kids are being diagnosed with autism. And it made Kim think back on a couple episodes that we had with two moms who are parenting kids who are autistic.   Our very first episode was with Larah Roberts. She shared all kinds of great insight on how we can talk to our kids who are neurodivergent about things of faith.  One of the things I love that she talked about was God created us to know him. So the fact that somebody has a diagnosis or a difference, that doesn't change the fact that God created them to know him so we can march forward confidently. Larah's Episode:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/raising-autistic-disciples-larah-roberts/id1788322535?i=1000682404450 Larah's Book "How to Advocate & Stay Christian: For Parents of Special Kids" https://amzn.to/4mcTT9b The second episode by a mom raising an autistic kid is my friend, Kari Baker. Her son, Brady, is a teenager, and she shares how they navigated getting the diagnosis. And one of my favorite quotes in her book is she talks about how the first couple years, they were very much swimming in a private pool. Like they weren't sharing it with anybody. They weren't even using the term autism. She talks about how she navigated that, how she started being vulnerable and how God used that to really build her community. Kari's Episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/kind-families-kari-baker/id1788322535?i=1000685147742 Kari's Book "Finding KIND: Discovering Hope and Purpose While Loving Kids with Invisible Neurological Differences" https://amzn.to/451GV79 So if you are somebody who is parenting an autistic kid, loves an autistic kid, has a family in your circle that has an autistic kid, and you want to better understand what these families might be going through or how you can better support them, give those both a listen. Everybody have a great summer!   "Boundless Hope for Every Child" by Kim Botto https://amzn.to/3TL4tIf (affiliate links)

It's the summer! Our routines change, the way we do things change, and so we're changing up Every Child Belongs for the month of July with a couple of mini-episodes.    As Kim has been reflecting, a recent episode that stands out was with Dr. Dwonna Thompson Lenoir and the three things she said we could do in order to be a safe place for kids.   One is, be curious. Like if a kid is behaving in a way that you don't understand, be curious.    Second thing is have a conversation. Talk with the child, not at the child.    Third is consistency. We've got to do what we say we're going to do. When we don't do what we say we're going to do, then trust is broken and the kid doesn't feel like they can depend on us.   Everybody have a great summer!

In this episode of Every Child Belongs, host Kim Botto sits down with her friend and fellow advocate Sandra Peoples.  Sandra shares her unique story of growing up in a family shaped by disability—her older sister had Down syndrome—and how that upbringing influenced her calling. Years later, Sandra and her husband became parents to two boys, one of whom was diagnosed with profound autism. This dual perspective—both as a sibling and now a parent—has fueled her lifelong work in encouraging families and guiding churches toward true inclusion. Sandra's book, Unexpected Blessings, unpacks the beauty and challenge of life in a special needs family. Now, Sandra focuses her energy on equipping churches to welcome and support all people. She shares how her own family asked bold questions when interviewing at churches, advocating for disability ministries from day one. Her story is one of grace, growth, and gospel-centered advocacy that every church leader and family needs to hear. If you're navigating disability in your own family or leading in a church wondering where to start, Sandra's insights are both inspiring and practical. From language learning to ministry-building, Sandra reminds us what's possible when we choose to see every person as a vital part of the body of Christ. "Boundless Hope for Every Child" by Kim Botto https://amzn.to/3Uj0MKg (affiliate links) Every Child Belongs explores how we can create spaces where every child feels heard and valued, whether neurodivergent, differently abled, or they've experienced trauma. We'll hear from educators, parents, professionals, and more. Kim Botto is an adoptive mom, grandma, an advocate for kids and teens with disabilities, as well as a long-time leader of kids in student ministries.

In this heartfelt episode, Kim Botto is joined by Jamie Finn—foster and adoptive mom, author, and founder of Foster the Family. Jamie shares her candid journey into foster care and the powerful lessons she's learned along the way. With humility and wisdom, Jamie emphasizes that being "qualified" isn't about credentials—it's about love, faith, and a willingness to grow.   Jamie opens up about what it really means to step into the foster care world unprepared but faithful, highlighting the importance of trauma-informed care, surrounding yourself with community, and approaching others with grace. She gives insight into helping the broader community understand trauma-related behaviors and why vulnerability from parents should center on their emotions, not their children's stories.   Listeners will be encouraged by Jamie's perspective on protecting kids—not only physically but also emotionally and socially. She explains how sharing just the right amount of information with trusted caregivers can transform the way children are supported and understood. Her blend of deep compassion and practical advice makes this episode a must-listen for any foster, adoptive, or caregiving family.   Whether you're a seasoned foster parent or just beginning to explore the idea, Jamie's wisdom will inspire you to approach the journey with truth, gentleness, and a commitment to honor every child's story with care. "Boundless Hope for Every Child" by Kim Botto https://amzn.to/3Uj0MKg (affiliate links) Every Child Belongs explores how we can create spaces where every child feels heard and valued, whether neurodivergent, differently abled, or they've experienced trauma. We'll hear from educators, parents, professionals, and more.   Kim Botto is an adoptive mom, grandma, an advocate for kids and teens with disabilities, as well as a long-time leader of kids in student ministries.

Welcome to Every Child Belongs, Kim Botto—an adoptive mom, grandma, and passionate advocate for children and teens with disabilities—explores how we can build spaces where every child feels seen, heard, and valued. With decades of experience in student and kids' ministry, Kim invites listeners into meaningful conversations with parents, educators, professionals, and community leaders to uncover real-life strategies for inclusion. Whether a child is neurodivergent, differently abled, or has experienced trauma, this podcast offers support and encouragement for anyone invested in their well-being.     In this episode, Kim talks down with Dr. Terisha Lee, a parent educator, practical theologian, and the founder of FamAuLee Dynamics. Dr. Lee shares her inspiring journey of advocating for families navigating the intersections of faith, race, and disability. From early volunteer work as a child to launching support groups for parents, Dr. Lee has been living out her passion for inclusivity long before she had the language to describe it. Her motto, "God's ability is greater than any disability," reflects her deep commitment to creating space for families often overlooked or misunderstood by society and even within faith communities.     Dr. Lee opens up about the joys and challenges families face when raising children with disabilities, including how preconceived ideas about love and patience are often transformed through this journey. She also addresses the harm caused by shame-based theology and misinformed support, encouraging communities to lead with kindness instead of offering unsolicited opinions on causes and cures. With wisdom and grace, Dr. Lee offers practical advice on how individuals and churches can better support families—not by fixing, but by showing up and making room.     Together, Kim and Dr. Lee remind us that it doesn't take a large budget or perfect plan to make a meaningful impact. Inclusion begins with the willingness to listen, to learn, and to adapt. Whether you're a parent, ministry leader, educator, or simply someone who cares, this conversation is filled with rich insights and gentle challenges that will leave you encouraged and better equipped to support every child's belonging.   "Boundless Hope for Every Child" by Kim Botto https://amzn.to/3Uj0MKg (affiliate links)

In this special mailbag episode, host Kim Botto and producer Dave dive into real questions from parents and church leaders who are walking alongside neurodivergent kids or those impacted by trauma. From navigating overstimulation in youth group to meeting sensory needs at home, Kim offers practical, grace-filled strategies grounded in curiosity and compassion. You'll also hear why your stories and questions matter—and how they help shape a community that sees, supports, and values every child. Whether you're a parent, educator, or ministry leader, this episode brings real encouragement and tangible tools. Kim Botto has spent more than 30 years walking alongside kids, families, and ministry leaders as they navigate tough stuff together. She holds a master's in family ministry and is a TBRI® Practitioner, Trauma Free World Affiliate Trainer, and longtime kids and student pastor. Kim is a passionate voice for inclusion, belonging, and practical hope. She loves a messy table, meaningful connection, and time with her eleven grandkids.   "Boundless Hope for Every Child" by Kim Botto https://amzn.to/3Uj0MKg (affiliate links)