Summer Activities for Children of All Ages
We recently discussed the challenges of summer for children in foster care or unstable homes. Summer break often results in isolation and a lack of routine for kids who rely on the transportation, daily lunches, and socialization that school provides. Single parents may also struggle to spend time with their children or provide childcare due […]
Freedom From Chronic Poverty: Financial Resources for Youth Leaving Foster Care
When young adults age out of the foster care system, chronic poverty becomes an immediate concern. With limited financial resources, educational opportunities, and social support, these individuals often face a daunting path to self-sufficiency. In this article, we delve into the challenges of chronic poverty and explore how it uniquely impacts young adults transitioning out […]
The Negatives of Summer Break for Children in Foster Care
As the days grow longer and the temperature rises, excitement fills the air for many families. Most look forward to summer vacation, endless outdoor activities, and a break from the daily grind. However, for children in foster care and families in crisis, summer break often signals a period of uncertainty, isolation, and struggle. While most […]
Foster Care Awareness Month: Why It Matters and How to Participate
May is Foster Care Awareness Month (also known as National Foster Care Month), a time dedicated to acknowledging and supporting children in foster care. We also honor foster parents, family members, volunteers, mentors, and child welfare professionals who help kids in foster care find permanent homes and connections. This month-long observance acts as a tribute […]
The Benefits of Camp for Children
Summer camps offer an incredible array of benefits for all children, serving as a foundational experience that fosters growth, independence, and a sense of community. It’s more than just a fun summer activity; it’s a vital component of childhood development, offering a unique blend of learning, growth, and fun. For children in foster care, these […]
Social Work Appreciation Month: Challenges and Reforms
In recognition of Social Work Appreciation Month this March (or Social Work Month), we shed light on the critical role social workers play in child welfare. The 2024 theme for Social Work Appreciation Month, “Empowering Social Workers,” underscores the need for increased support for these professionals. We discuss the challenges social workers face daily in […]
What is Kinship Care?
Kinship care, also known as kinship placement, is a form of out-of-home placement. Instead of staying with a family they may not know, children are cared for by relatives or close family friends when their biological parents cannot provide suitable care. This setup provides a viable alternative to traditional foster care and sometimes even leads […]
How to Help Children Overcome Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety is a natural emotional response that many children experience when separated from their primary caregivers. While it’s common among toddlers and preschoolers, children in foster care might exhibit these symptoms more intensely or for a prolonged period due to the unique challenges they face. Understanding the symptoms and how to address them allows […]
What is Wraparound Care?
Whether you’re fostering a child or raising your own, childcare is immensely meaningful and rewarding. But it can also be extremely difficult. That’s why it’s important to consider your options when it comes to methods and resources, particularly when a child in your care struggles with behavioral health. We dive into the concept of wraparound […]
Bridging the Gap: The Need for Foster Parents of Teens
In our troubled foster care system today, thousands of teens desperately need stable homes and the support of dedicated foster parents. We take a closer look at the reality of teens in foster care, the challenges they face, and how prospective foster parents can make a meaningful impact by fostering a teen. Teens in Foster […]
What Is Trauma-Informed Care?
Trauma leaves a lasting mark. It often causes long-term effects, including emotional challenges like chronic anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder; behavioral changes such as increased aggression or substance abuse; difficulties in forming healthy relationships; and much more. That’s why trauma needs to be taken into account in settings like the foster care system, where […]
Foster Care vs Adoption: Understanding the Differences
When we talk about providing a stable, loving environment for children in need, two concepts often come up: foster care and adoption. Though the two share common ground, they’re not the same. We delve into the distinct characteristics and differences between foster care and adoption. What is Foster Care? Foster care exists as a temporary […]
