Supporting Foster Families Through Trauma-Informed Parenting
- cwalls22
- Apr 17
- 2 min read
On March 27, 2025, Paula Gonzalez, MSW, LSW, Executive Director of the Preventive Measures Foundation, presented a heartfelt and informative session on Trauma-Informed Parenting during a Virtual Coffee and Conversation meeting with foster parents working with The Kindness Project.
Trauma-Informed Parenting is an approach that recognizes the deep and lasting impact that trauma, such as neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse, or verbal assault, can have on a child’s development, behavior, and emotional well-being. Rather than focusing solely on discipline or correction, it emphasizes understanding, connection, and healing. Parents are encouraged to see beyond the behavior and ask, “What happened to this child?” instead of “What’s wrong with this child?”
The intimate group of four parents in attendance brought sincere curiosity and compassion to the discussion. Some bravely shared their fears, worrying they weren’t doing enough, or weren’t doing the right things. It was clear they were deeply committed to not being another source of pain for their children. They listened with open hearts and minds to suggestions on how to be present and responsive caregivers.
What Paula reminded the group, and what we hope all foster parents remember, is this: no parent is perfect. What matters most is being consistent and firm, while never losing the warmth and connection in the relationship. That balance builds trust and safety; two things every child, especially one who has experienced trauma, needs to thrive.
THE KINDNESS PROJECT
The Kindness Project provides free support to foster families across eastern Pennsylvania by offering essential items for the children in their care. Children are often placed into foster care with no personal items. Through our shops, The Kindness Exchange, located in Emmaus, PA, and The Kindness Cottage, in Stroudsburg, PA, youth from ages newborn to young adults are provided with stylish new or like new clothing, shoes, hygiene items, beds, and other key items to help meet their most immediate needs. Learn more at www.mykindnessproject.org.