Becoming a foster parent is a very rewarding and selfless thing for anyone who is able to do. However, it can be hard, sometimes, for the foster parents and the child to adjust to the situation. If you are considering becoming a parent in foster care in Phoenix, AZ there are a few tips that you might want to follow to help your family and your foster child adjust.
The first thing you need to know when entering into foster care in Phoenix, AZ is a bit about the child’s past. Case workers can provide you with a basic background, but be sure to go to them for questions, and not the child. Understanding the past situation that your foster child endured is important to helping that child to succeed while he is in your care.
Gathering a support system when you’re getting started in foster care in Phoenix, AZ, is imperative. You should create a support network, whether it is your church, other foster parents, or local support groups. Have this support group help you to reach the child and to show him that he has people he can depend on to help out and is loved.
One of the main things you want to do is spend time with your foster child; many of them come from environments where they were neglected, so the more time that you spend with them the better and more secure they will feel. Allowing your foster child to join sports teams, the drama club or whatever outside interests he might have is pivotal to gaining trust, and to him having an outlet other than school. Encourage him to play and make sure to make time to go to games and performances. To any child, this is a great thing, but to a foster child it may just be amazing.
Being a foster parent is one of the most giving things a couple can do. If you can help even one child to feel loved, and have a better future, then you have done society a service as a whole, and should feel great about yourself as well.
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