Reader xxsurroundedbyxy has asked what you can do when you have no support. I will share my ideas about finding help with foster children when family or friends are not an option. Please, share your thoughts, ideas or experiences below to help out other foster parents.

Some foster parents do not have family or friends willing to help out with foster children for any number of reasons. This can make things rough for you and add to your stress level. I will share some ideas and options to look at when you are trying to find someone to help out with your foster children. Please read this carefully: First, every state and agency will have their own laws and guidelines to meet so, check with both before doing anything.

The first option for finding someone willing to watch your foster children is other foster parents. Other foster parents that are in your area may also be in the same situation with finding respite care providers. This could open the door for the possibility of foster families trading time watching each others’ foster children. Granted this is something that may not work for everyone. One thing I found with this is that the other foster family only wanted to care for my foster children not my personal children. Personally, I always try not to separate them, but that is not always possible.

Another route to check out is drop-in daycare, home daycare or mother’s day out programs. With these types of child care these individuals and/or businesses are regulated by the government which means they should have all the needed training and background checks.

When you call, explain that you are a foster parent that needs the occasional child care and ask if they are willing to work with you. Personally, the home daycare worked great for me. I had one that I used at least once a month and she was also able to provide overnight care for me which was an added bonus.

Mother’s day out programs may also be an option for you, remember that they are not as flexible but could be a great way to get some alone time. You may also want to think of taking only your foster children that do not have a number of behaviors.

More reading:

Who Finds the Support System and Resources for Foster Children?

Seeking a Support System and Helping with Your Foster Children

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