The Dos and Don’ts of Foster Care

At Family Care for Children & Youth (FCCY), our commitment goes beyond simply fulfilling our responsibilities; we are dedicated to excelling in every aspect of our work. Our ultimate goal is to provide vulnerable children with the stability, warmth, and care they deserve in safe and nurturing homes. To help you make a positive impact as a foster parent, we’ve compiled a list of dos and don’ts that can guide you on this remarkable journey. Learn more and get in touch with our foster care agency to become a foster parent or learn more about the process.

 

Foster mom comforting a young girl.

Do Listen to Your Foster Child’s Needs

It is critical that you listen carefully to your foster child and take their needs seriously. While it may be hard to confront difficult emotions, it is essential that you create a safe environment for them to express their feelings without fear of judgment.

 

Mom and child with their hands touching, holding a red heart in the center of their hands.

Don’t Lose Your Temper

It’s natural to become frustrated at times, but it is important to remain calm and composed when working with your foster child. Losing your temper and resorting to yelling or punishment only creates an atmosphere of distrust and fear. Instead, try speaking respectfully in a low voice and using constructive disciplinary measures whenever possible.

 

Two foster children doing laundry in a home.

Do Establish Routines and Boundaries

Having a regular schedule and set of boundaries will provide your foster child with structure, security, and consistency. Everyday routines can help them feel settled in their new environment. At the same time, it’s important to establish firm boundaries so that they know how to behave appropriately.

 

Young girl being comforted by a woman.

Don’t Be Overly Critical

Although it is essential to be honest and have high expectations, foster parents should also be nurturing and supportive of their children. Love and compassion are just as important as discipline; being too critical with your words or actions can severely damage the relationship between you and your foster child.

Caring for a foster child can be one of the most rewarding experiences in life. With these dos and don’ts, you can ensure that your foster child finds emotional and physical stability along with a sense of belonging in their new home. FCCY is here to support you every step of the way — contact us today to learn more about the process!

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With experienced, compassionate and dedicated professionals, we'll work with you in order to find the best solutions. Whether you know a child in need of emergency services, or you are looking to provide a home for those in need, call us today!

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The mission of Family Care for Children & Youth, Inc. is to be the best social service agency committed to providing an excellent standard of care and culturally competent services while communicating compassion, empathy, and hope for the future.

OUR HAPPY FAMILIES SAY IT ALL

Check out our success stories below

"THEY CARE ABOUT THE CHILDREN AND ARE VERY THOROUGH"

My husband and I always tell people that talk to us about wanting to foster or adopt about our agency. We enjoy working with this agency because the staff not only care about the careful placement of a child but also about us as a family. Our agency is available and quick to respond to us whether we have an emergency or just a question. They care about the children and are very thorough to ensure the children and the foster family are getting what they need.

Alice Cedrone

"WE ENJOY GIVING BACK"

Fostering is very positive experience not only for ourselves but also for the child’s well-being. We enjoy giving back. Providing a loving, nurturing home to a child gives the child an opportunity to have a normal childhood as possible.
Millie Flores

"WE WOULD RECOMMEND FCCY"

Picking FCCY to work with has been the best thing my husband and I could have done. We have had only positive experiences with this agency. The case managers are so good and give you total support as a foster parent. We would recommend FCCY to others looking into foster care.

P. Kyler