When you picture a child in foster care, you may imagine a small child only a few years old – or less. Children of that age certainly need care from resource parents, but there are many teens in foster care, as well. Children in their teenage years are more self-sufficient in terms of day to day tasks, but they need just as much emotional support as a younger child.
Setting the Stage
Teenagers are just a few years from setting out on their own in adult life. Even kids from stable family backgrounds can struggle to make that transition, so it is obviously difficult for a child that has been in various foster homes and away from their birth family. Teens in foster care need strong resource parents who are able to guide them in the right direction, discuss the realities of moving out on their own, deal with higher education goals, and more. It’s no exaggeration to say that good foster parents during the teenage years can make all the difference in the life of a child.
Ready to Help?
If you have been considering serving as a resource parent, think about what you may have to offer teens in foster care. This is a group that is often overlooked by prospective foster parents but working with teens can be highly rewarding as you see them transition into successful, happy adults. Want to make a huge difference in your community, and in the lives of many young people? Think about serving teens in the foster care system.
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.
Author: Children First FFA
Published: November 30, 2019