Stories

• Act Now, Pay Later – When my son entered foster care, I couldn’t think, plan, or stay calm. by Jeanette Vega

• Home Safe Home – I’m looking for supportive housing for my son and me. by Sara Werner

• Mommy Time – I had to change for my children’s sake. by Melissa Landrau

• Breaking the Chain (English and Spanish) – Building a calm, safe home for my son. by Evelyn Salazar

• Sick and Tired – I needed respite and support but instead I lost my son. by Carla Burks

• Child Left Behind – My son fell apart in a stressful school environment. by Piazadora Footman

• Trapped – I know what my son and I need but I can’t afford it. by Jasmin Gonzalez

Articles

• When Stress Is Toxic – Bringing the science of child development into child welfare. by Jeanette Vega with Dominique Arrington and Sharkkarah Harrison

• Laying the Past to Rest – Calming your body’s sensations can help to heal trauma. by Piazadora Footman

• Do Over – Changing as a parent takes courage and practice. by Youshell Williams

• Keeping Your Head in the Game – Coaching parents to achieve economic mobility goals. by Rise

Resources

• Rise TIPS: The Challenge of Change Under Stress Includes tools for handling toxic stress and trauma; coaching and support to reduce stress while making life changes and dealing with the child welfare system; and, tips for finding service providers where you feel safe.

• Rise TIPS: Fight or Flight Explains trauma and the pain that can come up in visits – and how you can cope.

• Healing Ourselves, Healing Our Children Stories about parenting by parents affected by the child welfare system. Includes information about using this booklet in parenting classes and support groups.

• ‘It’s OK to Need Support’ A parent-to-parent guide to family support services.

• Stepping Into Fatherhood A parent-to-parent guide for fathers.

• Nuestras Historias Cuentos escritos por madres Hispanas.