Parenting Teens in Kinship Care: Building Trust and Reducing Conflict

Do you ever wonder how to truly connect with a teen who’s pushing you away, when every word feels like it could spark a door-slam or an icy silence? Are you a grandparent navigating the dizzying maze of kinship care—grappling with the fear that trauma might repeat itself, and unsure how to bridge the gap as your grandchild grows into adolescence? When “I love you” turns to eye rolls and “goodnight” is answered by a closed door, it’s easy to feel like an outsider in your own home.I’m Laura Brazan, host of 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity.' Through my own journey and conversations with experts like Jeanine Mushawar, I’ve discovered that parenting teens today means trading control for connection and leading not with fear, but with presence. It’s not about micromanaging, but about becoming the CEO of your family—a leader who listens for the story behind the struggle.Visit Jeanine's website to get her free 5 Questions That Get Teens Talking!Send us Fan MailRethink the child welfare system—what if the real issue isn’t funding, but the questions we ask? If you’re passionate about social justice, child welfare, or systemic reform—this episode will challenge your perspective and inspire new ways to advocate for change. Join us in shifting the focus from crisis management to family-centered solutions. Reshape the future of child welfare—listen now.  In this special pre-roll segment, I’m sharing a moving letter from a member of our community, Laurel. Her story of loss, resilience, and raising her grandson after the unthinkable is a raw reminder that none of us are walking this path alone.We want to hear from you. If Laurel’s story resonates with you, or if you have a journey of your own to share, join our private community. Your story might be the exact lifeline someone else needs to hear today. Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined.Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences.We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grgLiked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!CONNECT WITH US: Website | Facebook