The reasons that children are placed with foster families vary, from neglect, abuse, and violence in the home, to economic reasons. Regardless of the circumstances, entering into foster care is always a very difficult time for the children involved, especially those of a very young age.Foster Care usually occurs in two main ways: Voluntarily: When a parent or family asks social services for help. And/or a Court order: When a judge decides that it is necessary for the child to be placed in the care of social services.
There are four main types of Foster Care: Day-care, Short-term (1 week to some months) Long-term (A year or more) and Relative (when another family member e.g. grandparents become the foster family). Using this book Entering into Foster Care can be a very confusing time for any child, with many feeling anxious and afraid about leaving their families behind to live with people they have never met. This book has been designed for parents, teachers, carers and social workers to read with children who are about to begin the process of foster care. The story is told through the eyes of the main character, Sammy, who is himself going through the Foster Care process. He refers to feelings of fear and doubt about going to stay with another family. But soon he finds that his new family are kind, caring and have time to have fun with him! By the time Sally the social worker comes to visit him he is feeling happy and safe in his new home.
By reading this story with your child, and discussing the experience of a child in a similar situation, the parent/social worker can enforce the fact that staying with a foster family is a positive thing and not something that children should be afraid of. It also reassures them that they will still have some contact with their birth families.
Useful links
www.ifca.ie