Every Child Belongs

• Summer Reflection 1 : Kim Botto

  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!

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• Building Inclusive Churches for Kids with Disabilities : Sandra Peoples

  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. 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.

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• Community & Compassion Matter in Foster Care : Jamie Finn

  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.   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.

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• Embracing Diversity in Faith & Disability : Dr. Terisha Lee

  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.

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• Mailbag #2: Real Questions on Sensory Needs, Neurodivergence, Trauma & Church Challenges : Kim Botto

  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.

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