1. Set up time to spend with your child away from your foster children. This does not have to be a major deal. It can be as simple as going to the grocery store, running errands, get your nails done together (this was my daughter’s favorite), etc.

2. Let them have time away from the house without foster siblings.

3. Do not make them give up their activities because of the added scheduling of foster care.

4. Allow them to have their feelings even if at times if they do not like the foster children that are in your home.

5. Always let them have a voice. Let me know they can come to you any time. Remember, your child may be aware or see a problem happening with a foster child before you do, so keep the communication open.

6. If you or they feel that they need a break from foster care, talk to them about it. Maybe they just need a long weekend away with family or a week before your next placement.

7. Do not push them into sharing their personal things (there is a great chance it will not be returned in the same condition it was loaned it in). They should be allowed to choose what they are willing and not willing to sharing.

8. Do not make them responsible for the foster children, meaning they should not feel like they need to be watching the foster children to report what is happening with every minor thing.

9. Allow them time to themselves.

10. Take the time to let your child know what an important member of the foster family they are and you realize how much they give.


“Nothing is a waste of time if you use the experience wisely.”
Auguste Rodin