In this episode of Every Child Belongs, host Kim Botto sits down with licensed mental health counselor, registered play therapist, and author Brianna Edwards.
Brianna shares how play can become one of the most powerful tools we have for helping kids feel safe, connected, and understood. She explains why play is a child's natural language, how adults can use it to disarm fear and build connection, and why behaviors often have deeper stories underneath the surface.
Kim and Brianna talk about practical ways parents, teachers, and church leaders can support kids with big feelings or confusing needs—even when we don't have all the answers. From creating sensory-friendly spaces, to practicing repair after conflict, to helping siblings feel seen, the conversation is full of gentle wisdom and real-life strategies.
Brianna also shares her personal story of growing up with her brother Nathaniel, who had complex medical needs, and how that experience inspired her new children's book, The Little Roo Who Stuffed Her Stuff, which helps kids express emotions they might otherwise hide.
If you want to better understand kids, support families, or create environments where every child truly belongs, this episode offers hope, insight, and practical next steps.
Get Brianna's book: "The Little Roo Who Stuffed Her Stuff" on Amazon
https://a.co/d/3WiXSSt
"Boundless Hope for Every Child: Help for the Hurting, Compassion for the Misunderstood, Belonging for the Lonely" by Kim Botto
https://amzn.to/3Utuw6V
(affiliate links)
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.
