An important goal of parenting a healthy foster/adoptive family is to prepare children to someday live independently beyond the security and comfort of their parents. A relationship with adults outside the immediate family offers kids a safe setting to learn and practice independence and life skills, as well as multiple positive role models for healthy adulthood.
All children and youth benefit from safe and secure relationships with adults, but children who’ve experienced the trauma, grief and loss inherent in foster care often struggle with developing trust in relationships and establishing their unique identity within the foster/adoptive family. These children and youth are particularly vulnerable to unhealthy relationships, filled with false promises and the potential for further abuse. Giving children the chance to move towards independence within a community that includes several reliable adults offers practice in building healthy relationships, as well as improved self-respect, confidence, a sense of accomplishment, and a growing array of life skills.
Support team members have a unique opportunity to provide a consistent adult presence in the lives of kids in foster/adoptive families. By spending time with the kids, you not only give parents a needed break, you also allow children to expand their ability to trust and grow the healthy relationships they’ll need to be successful adults.
