Nurturing resilience — A foster parent and doula’s perspective on social pediatrics and holistic child health

As a foster parent to 98 children, over two decades as a pharmaceutical executive and a certified doula, my lived experience has offered a front-line perspective on the critical intersection of social pediatrics and child health. This presentation will explore how integrative, community-based care — rooted in compassion, advocacy, and trauma-informed practices — is essential for promoting resilience and long-term well-being in vulnerable children.

Drawing from real-world cases, I will highlight how social determinants such as poverty, family instability, abuse, and lack of access to healthcare shape a child’s physical and emotional development. I will also discuss the transformative impact of consistent caregiving, early intervention, and family-centered support systems in mitigating these challenges. My dual role as a doula and foster caregiver has allowed me to support children from birth through adolescence, emphasizing breastfeeding, proper hygiene, nutritional support, and trauma-informed parenting as foundational pillars of care.

The presentation will examine how collaboration between healthcare providers, educators, and caregivers can create a safety net for at-risk children — especially those navigating the foster care system. I will share evidence-based practices and personal insights on managing mental health crises, supporting developmental delays, and creating emotionally safe environments that encourage healing and growth.

By centering children’s voices and honoring their lived experiences, social pediatrics can shift from reactive treatment to proactive empowerment. My goal is to illustrate how non-clinical caregivers, like foster parents and doulas, can play a critical role in holistic pediatric care models. Together, through advocacy, policy, and practice, we can build a system where every child — regardless of their background — has the opportunity to thrive.

This session will offer conference attendees a unique perspective grounded in both hands-on caregiving and child health advocacy, contributing to a broader dialogue on equity, resilience, and the future of social pediatrics.

Allison Missler is a foster parent to 98 children, a certified doula serving underserved pregnant people, and a former pharmaceutical executive with over 20 years of industry experience. Her unique background blends clinical insight with compassionate, hands-on care. Allison advocates for trauma-informed approaches that prioritize healing and resilience, asking “what happened to this child?” rather than “what’s wrong with this child?” She works closely with Indiana’s Department of Child Services and serves on multiple child welfare committees. Through foster care, doula work, and public service, Allison is committed to creating safe, equitable environments where children and families can thrive.