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Family contact can be one of the most emotionally challenging parts of caring for a child who has experienced trauma—not just for the child, but for you too.

Whether a child is in foster care, an adoptive family, kinship care or another permanent home, or a separated parent, contact with a parent they no longer live with can bring uncertainty, worry and anxiety for everyone involved. Many parents and carers spend the entire week leading up to contact wondering how their child will cope, what emotions might surface, and what life will look like afterwards.

In this episode of TRIBE Talk, Laura Neal and Rachel explore why this anxiety is so common, how your own emotional state can influence your child's experience, and practical ways to reduce your own anxiety before, during and after family contact.

You'll discover:

• Why family contact can create anxiety for parents and carers.
• How your child may be influenced by your emotional state.
• Practical strategies to help you stay calm and regulated.
• How to support your child before, during and after contact.
• Why looking after yourself is one of the best ways to support your child.

If family contact leaves you feeling anxious, overwhelmed or emotionally exhausted, this episode will help you feel more prepared, more confident and less alone.

For Parental How To Videos check out:

• How To Help Children & Teens Who Get Angry: https://youtu.be/6hWuy2mB1D8?si=lPOypSjfpBs0YGHE
• How To Help Bedtime Battles: https://youtu.be/dhUdSGNKck0?si=O7Vj2qeO8GwHVeKx