Being a foster parent requires a lot of time and dedication, but this is often what makes it so worthwhile. You are making a positive impact on the children that you foster and this can change their lives for the better. However, you may not be sure exactly what it is that you need to do in order to be a good foster parent. Here are two things that you must be able to do as a foster parent.
Be A Role Model
One of the most important things that you must be able to do as a foster parent is to be a role model. Your foster child will be watching you most of the time, so it is important that you are showing them how to act. They also likely haven’t had many role models in their life, so you can make a huge difference in how they perceive the world around them. Do your best to be a positive role model to them and help them work through whatever it is that they may be going through.
Communicate Properly
The child that you foster likely hasn’t been taught how to communicate in a calm and effective manner, if they have been taught to communicate at all. Because of this, it is so important that you are a master communicator so that they can then learn how to effectively communicate themselves. Your example will be more helpful than any words you say because actions speak louder than words. Teach them to listen, to express their emotions, to know that it is safe to have emotions, etc.
To learn about more things that you must be able to do as a foster parent, or to begin the process of becoming a foster parent today, visit us at TFI Family Services.