Once choose to become a resource parent in California, you will immediately know that you are jumping into an opportunity that is going to be filled with many challenges and rewards. One of the challenges that is commonly faced in this situation is caring for children who have experienced trauma. Sadly, trauma is a likely event in the life of a child who lands in foster care, so caregivers and other service providers must understand trauma-informed practices to help the young person move forward. 

What is Trauma-Informed Care?

Trauma-informed care is an important topic not only inside foster care but in the greater landscape, as well. The idea here is that the care someone receives should be understanding of and sensitive to the traumas that they have experienced throughout life. When offering care to someone in a way that respects their traumas and how they have impacted their journey, it is easier to form a connection and promote healing and resilience. If you are going to become a resource parent in California, learning about trauma-informed care and what it can do to benefit foster youth will enable you to reach better outcomes for those who are placed in your care. 

Overcoming Significant Hurdles

The traumas that are often experienced by foster youth are often difficult to overcome, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be done. As you work to become a resource parent in California, you’ll learn that each foster youth has had a unique experience in life, and almost all have gone through notable traumas in one way or another. Lending trauma-informed care to those young people can help to build trust, provide them with a feeling of stability, and improve the chances of better outcomes moving forward. More than just providing a physical place to live, you’ll have the opportunity to form a relationship and offer direction to help the young person move forward positively. 

If you are interested in learning more about becoming a foster parent, contact Children First Foster Family Agency or apply to become a resource parent. 

Children First FFA is a private, non-profit organization in Northern California that is dedicated to helping change lives by providing a safe place for children to heal in a culture of love, acceptance, and consistency.