The winter holidays center around family traditions, celebrations, and growing together. For children in foster care, the holidays can present challenges. They also bring opportunities for creating happiness and security. Here are some considerations for foster families during the holidays:
Every Child’s History is Different
Most people possess some emotionally charged memories related to the holidays: whether joyful, grief-ridden, warm, or traumatic, we connect those feelings to the holidays. The child in your home may treasure the holidays as some of his or her best memories. On the other hand, the child may have been taken into state custody during the holidays. Or, the child might not feel much of a connection to the season at all. Be observant and take the time to honor whatever feelings arise.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Every family celebrates differently. Wholeheartedly invite the child to participate in your traditions, to have fun and experience the holidays for themselves. If they offer to share their birth family’s traditions with you, work those into your normal routine.
Be Prepared for Sudden Changes
Children are often placed with foster families during the holidays. Have a few extra gifts and stockings handy in case you take a child into your home at the last minute.
Birth Family and Reunification
Giving gifts to the birth family members means a lot. These gifts can support reunification in practical or emotionally healing ways.
Travel Plans
If you have travel plans, be sure to coordinate with your DCS caseworker well in advance.
Financial Needs
If you need help providing gifts to children in your care, reach out. Community groups such as Helen’s Hope Chest, Arizonans for Children, Arizona Helping Hands and the Salvation Army can help with toys. Many local organizations also help with holiday meals. The gift of experience and learning is invaluable; if you need help funding activities for children in your care, such as bike lessons or sports fees, apply for a grant from Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation.