Stories from the In-Between
Relational Practice Teaching Tales
Thom Garfat, Ph.D and Heather Modlin, Ph.D - editors
Human beings are, by nature, storytellers. Most of our communications are via stories. We share our desires, our wishes, our experiences via stories. Child and Youth Care workers are exceptional storytellers. We were, initially, storytellers out of necessity. In days gone by, there were no college or university programs, no training programs, no organised way in which to teach us how to be with young people. So, we taught each other – through stories.
This collection brings Child and Youth Care practice to life through vivid, relational storytelling that captures the complexity and beauty of everyday moments. Rooted in authenticity and genuine connection, these stories highlight the power of presence, curiosity, and humility, reminding us that meaning is often found not only in what is said, but in what is quietly held. With a focus on reflection and growth, the narratives invite readers to challenge assumptions, honour silence, and reconsider perspective, while emphasizing the importance of mattering in the lives of children, youth, families, and practitioners alike. Shared experiences become catalysts for transformation, illustrating how young people can move beyond their self-perceptions and how practitioners grow alongside them. Thought-provoking and deeply human, this book rekindles passion for Child and Youth Care practice and affirms that learning is lifelong.
Jenny McGrath, PhD –
Department of Child and Youth Care, MacEwan University, Canada
This is a powerful collection that honours the moments
where real connection happens. Through these short stories, the
writers gently illuminate the everyday courage, compassion, and
presence at the heart of child and youth care. Each tale invites
the reader to pause, reflect, and recognise the profound impact
of relational care that is often found in the quiet, in‑between
moments. This book is a joy to read and a moving reminder of why
this work matters, celebrating the deep and lasting difference
we make in the lives of others.
Simon Walsh –
Chief Executive Officer, Allambi Care, Australia
Stories
have always been a foundational part of Child and Youth Care
practice. They are a great way to teach and give examples of
what the texture of relational practice is. I read this book
with such pleasure. The wide array of people who have
contributed to this book brought together so many experiences
and insights into what quality Child and Youth Care is as well
as giving a sense of the history of Child and Youth Care. The
critical thinking questions at the end of the stories also added
so much to the learning.
Frank Delano –
President, Professional Package Consulting, USA
UNITY Conference 2026
Rooted in Relational Practice, Rising in Relational Leadership
9-10 November 2026, Dublin, Ireland
Call for Papers is now open here.
Leadership in relational contexts requires sustained commitment. Building teams, developing morale, addressing workforce turnover, mentoring through example, and safeguarding relational values are ongoing and intentional tasks. As we become more experienced as practitioners and leaders, it is ever more apparent that there is a growing responsibility to ensure that hard-earned relational learning is preserved, remembered, adapted, reimagined and carried forward by emerging generations.
UNITY 2026 seeks to explore how we remain rooted in relational practice while rising into relational leadership. We invite presenters to submit proposals that align with the theme of Relational Leadership Practices.
We welcome a broad spectrum of contributions including, research, practice-based presentations, workshops (interactive and experiential), panel discussions, storytelling and narrative approaches, innovative leadership models, case studies, reflective or theoretical explorations.
Consideration will be given to any proposal that meaningfully engages with relational leadership.
Conference Web: www.unityconference.org
Conference Program
The full conference program is now available here.
Silent Auction
Support CYC-Net and its mission to provide open-access learning resources for those working with children and youth in care.
How it works
Browse donated
items throughout the conference, place your bids, and check back
often—highest bid at closing wins! No auctioneer, bid at your own
pace.
Where & When
In person
at the 2026 World Conference, St. John’s, NL
June 23–26, 2026
We’re accepting Auction items!
Easy-to-transport items such as local artwork, cultural items, books,
trainings, clothing, or youth creations—really, almost anything!
Physical items must be present at the conference.
To donate, email: cycworldconference2026@cycanl.ca Please include a short description, approximate value, and a photo of your item.
Thank you for supporting CYC-Net!
CYC-Online
April 2026 (No. 326)
Editorial Comment: From Inspiration to Integration - What Happens on Monday Morning? | Janice Daley
Sleep, Eat, Play, Learn, Be You, Community (Part 2) | Kiaras Gharabaghi
The Risks in Children’s Use of Chatbots | Judith Lewis Herman and Frank W. Putnam
The Power of Mistakes | Joanne Leblanc
Caring for Youth and My Own: Reflections on Dual Caregiving in Child and Youth Care | Kathryn Colford
Relational Child and Youth Care Work | Lucky Jacobs
A Residential Care Horror Story: Life in the Camps | Hans Skott-Myhre
Postcard from Leon Fulcher from Auckland, New Zealand
