There is really nothing else to say except...what a week! Whew! We have been so busy because we had parenting classes at our county DFCS (Department of Family and Children Services) office each weeknight (Monday through Friday) from 5:30-9 p.m. We learned soooo much more about the entire process, and now have a firm grasp on our timeline. We learned alot about adoption and foster care, because there were people in there who are interested in foster care only, as well as adoption. There were 8 people (including us) in our class and we really enjoyed meeting them. Mr. & Mrs. P., Mr. & Mrs. H., Ms. J., and Ms. G were all wonderful people with a loving heart, and we are so excited for them as they embark on their journey to open their homes to waiting children. What did we discuss? Keep reading...
On Monday, we learned more about how children come in to state foster care. The social workers discussed some of their recent cases and provided examples of how seemingly "normal" families can turn their lives upside down. Learning about how some parents mistreat their children is revolting, especially for us since we want nothing more than a child in our home.
On Tuesday, we discussed how teenagers in foster care are prepared for the real world through DFCS Independent Living Program. They teach them life skills (such as getting a job, balancing a checkbook, making a budget, etc.) that will prepare them as they enter the real world. We learned about the impact of trauma on child development, how children deal with grief and loss (and also discussed our own experiences with grief and loss of loved ones), attachments, serious emotional disturbances, and parenting a child who has been sexually abused. Yes, it happens more than we all want to know. Much more. The case worker told us that approximately 82% of children in state care have experienced some type of sexual abuse. Absolutely horrifying, isn't it?
On Wednesday, we discussed behavior management techniques, understanding and preventing misbehavior, and how to parent children of a different culture, race, and religious beliefs other than our own.
On Thursday, we learned about setting limits and boundaries, merging family systems, what the first day in our home would most likely be like, and how to be an advocate for the child.
Friday was the best because we were able to meet foster and adoptive parents and their foster and adopted children. The children were sooo cute! The parents had lots of great tips and experiences that they shared with the group.
So what happens now? Don't worry, we'll be blogging about that very soon!
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