The Evolution of Family Support – Part 3

Archways' Threads

A Conversation with Karen Welford – Part 3

Listen to part one of this conversation here - https://share.transistor.fm/s/19935724

Listen to part two of this conversation here - https://share.transistor.fm/s/f2130591

In this final installment of our three-part series, Michelle Lennon concludes her insightful conversation with Karen Welford about the transformative power of the strengthening families framework. Together, they delve into the five protective factors and discuss their application in family support practices across the U.S. Learn how these principles empower families, foster resilience, and strengthen communities.

Key Takeaways

00:00 - Intro

00:28 - Introduction to the Five Protective Factors

01:20 - The Evolution of Protective Factors in Family Resource Centers

03:01 - Parental Resilience and Growth

04:17 - Building Resilience Through Problem Solving

08:38 - The Importance of Healthy Social Connections

14:15 - Concrete Supports in Times of Need

19:31 - Realistic Expectations for Child Development

20:15 - Parenting Education and Substance Recovery

The strengthening families framework equips family support professionals with tools to address challenges holistically. Karen highlights the role of relationship-building and nonjudgmental attitudes as foundational qualities in family support workers. These principles help families navigate crises, find stability, and build a brighter future.

Families often seek support during times of acute stress, such as food insecurity or financial emergencies. Karen and Michelle share inspiring examples of how timely assistance can be a lifeline, preventing cascading challenges. By fostering trusting relationships, family support workers enable families to identify and address underlying issues beyond immediate crises.

Parent education emerges as a recurring theme throughout the conversation. Michelle’s personal story of transforming her parenting approach illustrates the profound impact of knowledge and empathy. By emphasizing the importance of emotional competence and realistic expectations, family support programs empower parents to nurture their children’s development while fostering healthier relationships.

If there's a topic you'd like to see us cover, email us at [email protected] or call us at 603-960-2128. Visit our website at https://www.archwaysnh.org to learn more about the Archways family of recovery and family resource centers.

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