For too long, kinship and other forms of childhood care have been determined without a clear focus on children’s views. This book unveils unique research on the transformative power of listening to children, exploring how they navigate family life and relationships. It offers fresh insights for theories, policies and practices in support of children’s welfare. Essential reading for academics, researchers, practitioners and families, this book champions a new critical realist "what matters" approach, reinvigorating kinship care and child permanence debates.