The Forgotten Podcast
Connecting With Your Child Through Stories (w/Sarah Mackenzie) Ep. 298
In this episode of The Forgotten Podcast, host Jami Kaeb welcomes back Sarah Mackenzie, author, podcast host, and founder of Read-Aloud Revival. Sarah brings her deep passion for storytelling and family connection to address a challenge that foster and adoptive parents often face: how to build safety, trust, and meaningful attachment with children who have experienced trauma, disruption, or loss. Sarah shares how reading aloud serves as a powerful, non-threatening bridge to connection. She explains the brain science behind shared reading, detailing how listening to a story lowers cortisol levels and releases oxytocin—the hormone responsible for bonding and emotional safety. For children in foster care or adoptive homes who may feel overwhelmed by direct eye contact or intense face-to-face interaction, sitting side-by-side with a book creates a gentle, low-pressure space. The story becomes a shared third object, allowing kids to process complex emotions, build empathy, and explore heavy themes like grief, identity, and belonging from a safe distance. Throughout the conversation, Sarah offers practical, easy-to-implement advice for busy caregivers who feel intimidated by adding another task to their day. She encourages parents to drop rigid expectations, explaining that reading aloud doesn't require sitting still or reading for hours—even five to ten minutes with picture books, graphic novels, or audiobooks during mealtimes can make a profound impact. This episode is packed with practical wisdom and encouragement, equipping foster and adoptive families to use the simple tool of stories to nurture lasting emotional attachment and bring light, comfort, and joy into their homes. About the Guest Sarah Mackenzie is the founder of Read-Aloud Revival, a popular podcast and online community dedicated to helping families build meaningful connections through books. She is an author, speaker, and homeschooling mother of six who writes picture books and resources aimed at inspiring a love of reading. Sarah is passionate about equipping parents with simple, practical tools to cultivate deep relationships, nurture emotional safety, and foster a lifelong love of stories within their homes. In This Episode How reading aloud triggers the release of oxytocin, helping children feel secure and attached. The benefits of side-by-side connection through books for kids who find direct eye contact intimidating. Using picture books and stories as a safe medium for children to process complex emotions and trauma. Practical tips for making read-aloud time manageable and low-stress for busy foster and adoptive families. Resources + Links Learn more about The Forgotten Initiative - https://theforgotteninitiative.org/ Follow TFI on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theforgotteninitiative/ Read-Aloud Revival - https://readaloudrevival.com/ Bonding Through Books - https://readaloudrevival.com/bonding-through-books/
