Every Child Belongs

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.