How to Join a Foster Parent Support Group

Foster parents provide a safe, temporary home for children who have been abused and neglected and are unable to stay in their own homes. Public and private agencies recruit foster parents and there's always a need for more. The life of a foster parent is one that only other foster parents can understand. Support groups provide foster parents with people to talk to and time with others who understand.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Talk to the foster care agency. They are the best resource for support groups in your area. Start with your local Department of Social Services. Try independent agencies, too. They should know if there are groups that meet locally.

2. Become a blogger. There are foster care and adoption blogs online aimed at providing support for parents. Topics include dealing with a violent child, when to feel sorry for a child and how to make a care plan.

3. Be brave. If you hear about or briefly meet another foster parent, don't be shy. Ask them about their situation, get their phone number or email address and promise to make contact. Becoming buddies can provide you both with the support you need.

4. Start your own support group. By making contacts in the foster parenting community, you'll hear and meet other parents craving support. Suggest a weekly or monthly meeting. You can use a community center, library or rotate between each other's homes.

Resources

• Visit the National Foster Parent Association's website for valuable information.
• Click here for foster care blogs.

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on 9/15/2008 I am a foster parent looking for other foster parents to share stories with. e-mail your stories to [e-mail]