Fostering teenagers can be a rewarding journey, but it also comes with unique challenges. At Family Care for Children and Youth (FCCY) in Pennsylvania, we understand the importance of creating a nurturing and supportive environment for foster teens. One of the key aspects of successful foster care placement is making these young individuals feel special and valued.
Encourage Open Communication
Building trust and connection with foster teenagers starts with open communication. Create a safe space for them to express their thoughts, feelings, and concerns. Regularly check in with them and listen actively. Engage in conversations about their interests, hobbies, and future goals. By showing genuine interest in their lives, you’ll make them feel heard and appreciated.
Celebrate Milestones and Achievements
Acknowledge and celebrate the achievements and milestones of your foster child, no matter how small they may seem. Whether it’s getting good grades, participating in a school play, or excelling in a sports competition, recognize their efforts and successes. These celebrations can boost their self-esteem and confidence.
Create Special Traditions
Establishing traditions within your foster care home can create a sense of belonging for foster teenagers. It could be as simple as having a monthly game night, cooking their favorite meal on their birthday, or celebrating holidays together in a special way. These traditions can provide stability and comfort in their lives.
Offer Emotional Support
Foster teens may carry emotional baggage from their past experiences. Offer them emotional support by being there for them during tough times. Provide access to counseling or therapy if needed. Let them know that they can rely on you for guidance and comfort when facing challenges.
Fostering teenagers requires patience, understanding, and love. By implementing these simple but powerful strategies, you can make a foster child feel special and cherished in your foster family. At FCCY, we are committed to supporting foster families in their journey. If you’re considering fostering or need guidance on foster care placement, reach out to us today for assistance and resources.
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!
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