Blog

Welcome to the official OhioKAN Blog, The Navigator. Please find entries from our OhioKAN staff and leadership with insights on navigating kinship and adoptive life.

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LATEST POSTS FROM The Navigator

The Journey Is Only Beginning

I have spent the past twenty-five years providing social services for children afflicted with trauma.  I began my career working with children who lived in a domestic violence shelter.  I…

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Mind-Lists Vs. Mindful

Please close your eyes and focus on one sound you hear.  Open your eyes and look around the room and focus on one item. What color is that item? Think…

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What Celebrating the Holidays Looks Like for Kinship Families

When you sit and think about your favorite childhood memories, what comes to mind? For me, it’s the holiday season. It starts with Halloween, goes right into Thanksgiving and Christmas…

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Exercise Helps Heal the Mind and Body

As I get older, I have noticed the absolute need for self-care. I try to make it to the gym at least 4 times a week and, during the pandemic,…

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Reactive Attachment Disorder overview for caregivers

Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) is a condition that develops as a result of inconsistent care, abuse, and/or, neglect during infancy and early childhood. Children whose basic needs were not met…

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The Importance of Play

With all the responsibilities, commitments, and stressors of caring for ourselves and our families, play can fall to the wayside. As kinship and adoptive families navigate their daily lives and…

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