1. Donate age-appropriate toys and clothes
Even the most seasoned foster parents might need new toys or specific toys. Some children come to a foster placement with nothing, and even a small gift can mean the world to a foster family. If you find out a foster family needs toys or clothing for their new foster children, offer to share any gently-used toys and clothes in good condition.
2. Invite them to kid-friendly outings
When the world returns to normal, everyone will be looking for ways to connect. Keep your foster family friends in mind when you plan get togethers. Finding kid-friendly places around town isn’t difficult, and it could be a huge weight off the shoulders of a foster family who can’t leave their children at home.
3. Give your Foster Family Friends a little grace and emotional support
Whether they are brand-new to the world of fostering or foster care pros, everyone needs love and support through tough situations. Foster care can be messy and tiring. It can also be wonderful and rewarding. Be there for foster parents as they go through the ups and downs of raising children, and give them grace when they slip up.
4. Get informed
Foster parents in Tennessee must receive months of training before accepting their first placement. Their friends, however, may not know anything about the foster care system, trauma-informed care, or parenting someone else’s child(ren). One way you can help support foster families is by voluntarily reading up on what they’re doing. While you may not get into the weeds of state law, Adverse Childhood Experiences, or psychology, you can always read up on the experiences of others in their foster care journey with a quick internet search for foster parent blogs. Check out the comments for some recommended blogs about fostering!
5. Become a licensed foster care or respite care provider
The best way to help foster parents is joining them on their journey. When you go through the Tennessee Knowledge Empowers You (TN KEY) classes, you learn more about what it takes to be a responsible foster parent. If you’re not ready to foster, you can also provide respite care which supports foster children and foster families with short-term care for children and teens.
For more information about fostering or respite care, email fostercare@chamblisscenter.org.
Written by: Rachel Froug