research initiatives

ICARA joined with researchers to implement a study among orphaned children in Kenya. Our hypothesis was that nurturing caregiving and playful interactions would reduce stress for the children (and caregivers) and support their development. As of 2024, the study, Kenyan Caregivers and Orphans Study (KCOS) is analyzing the data we collected from both children and caregivers.

A second study involves sifting through case studies and notes on conversations and discussions in ICARA trainings that will help us understand the needs of orphaned and vulnerable children, the relationships with caregivers, the challenges in caring for them, and the concerns of caregivers.

Both studies are in process.