Our Blog
Your Fall Family Bucket List: Pumpkin Patches, Corn Mazes, and Cozy Nights In
Fall slows everyone down in the best way. The air cools off, evenings get longer, and there’s room for the simple fun that turns a house into a home. For a child in foster care, those moments matter more than they might seem. A hayride or a night of hot cocoa on the...
Talking to Kids About Mental Health: A Guide for Parents
Mental health conversations don't have to wait for a crisis. September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and while much of the attention goes to recognizing warning signs, one of the most powerful things parents can do happens long before any warning sign...
When the School Calls: Handling Behavior Reports as a Foster Parent
The phone rings, you see the school's name on the screen, and your stomach drops before you even answer. For foster parents, a call about a "behavior issue" carries a different weight than it might for other families. It can feel like a referendum on the placement, on...
5 Things to Say Instead of “How Was Your Day?” (That Actually Get an Answer)
You already know the drill. You ask, "How was your day?" Your teen answers, "Fine." You ask a follow-up. You get "I don't know." And just like that, the conversation is over before it started. Here's the thing: it's not that your teen doesn't want to talk to...
Keep the Peace This Summer: Low-Cost Ways to Beat Boredom at Home
Summer sounds like a dream — no school bells, no homework, nowhere to be. But if you're a foster parent, you know that too much unstructured time can quickly go sideways. When routines disappear and boredom sets in, even the most patient households can feel the...
5 Signs a Child May Be Struggling Emotionally (And What To Do Next)
Children don't always have the words to tell us when something is wrong. They communicate through behavior, withdrawal, and emotion. As caregivers, foster parents, and community members, one of the most powerful things we can do is learn to recognize the signs. ...
Can I Foster? 6 Questions to Help You Decide If It’s Right for You
Becoming a foster parent is a meaningful and life-changing decision, but it’s also one that comes with questions, emotions, and uncertainty. If you’ve ever wondered, “Can I foster?” you’re not alone. Many people feel called to help but aren’t sure if they’re the right...
The Impact of Social Media on Teen Mental Health
Social media has become a central part of most teenagers’ daily lives. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and others allow teens to connect with friends, share experiences, and explore their interests. While social media can offer positive opportunities for...
Supporting Children Through Grief and Loss in Foster Care
When we think of grief, we often associate it with the death of a loved one. However, for children in foster care, grief is a complex, multi-layered experience that begins the moment they are separated from their biological families. This separation, even when...
Small Emotional Goals That Help Children and Teens Grow
Teaching a child to ride a bike or tie their shoes are visible milestones we celebrate. But just as important are the quieter, internal milestones of emotional growth. Helping children and teens develop emotional skills is one of the most fundamental ways we can...
Myths vs. Facts: What People Often Misunderstand About Foster Care
Myths vs. Facts: What People Often Misunderstand About Foster Care Foster care is a vital system designed to provide temporary, safe homes for children in need. Yet, it's a world often surrounded by myths and misconceptions. These misunderstandings can create barriers...
Preparing Teens for the Holidays: Balancing Independence and Family Traditions
Preparing Teens for the Holidays: Balancing Independence and Family Traditions The holiday season often brings images of cherished traditions and family togetherness. For families with teenagers, however, this time of year can also introduce a new dynamic: balancing...