Emergency foster placements often happen with little warning, leaving foster carers scrambling to get ready. With some preparation and planning though, you can be ready when the call comes to take in a child in need. Here are some tips to help you prepare so you can provide a stable, welcoming environment for emergency placements.
Have a Designated Space Ready
Having a room or designated area ready for a foster child to move into can make their transition much smoother. Make sure the space has a bed with fresh linens, a place to store clothes and belongings, and some basic decorations to make it feel homey. Having toys, books, art supplies, and games ready can also help a child settle in.
Even if you don’t end up using the space right away, it will be ready when an emergency call does come. Just be sure to sanitise and update anything regularly.
Gather Supplies
Keep an inventory of basic supplies like soap, shampoo, toothbrushes, pyjamas, socks and underwear in various sizes, and easy to prepare snacks and meals. Having these items ready to go means you won’t have to scramble to buy them when a child arrives on short notice.
You can also prepare a welcome basket or box with kid-friendly toiletries, a stuffed animal, book, journal, and small toys that a child can take with them to their room right away. Receiving these gifts can help them feel comforted.
Adjust Your Schedule
Emergency foster care often happens outside normal business hours, so be prepared for a call at night or on weekends. If you work outside the home, see if you can arrange some flexibility in your schedule for the first few days of a new placement. The child will need extra attention as they adjust.
Do Your Research
Learn about the typical needs of different age groups. Infants, toddlers, children, and teens all have unique requirements. Understanding basic care and emotional needs for the age you plan to foster can help you be prepared.
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Learn About Available Resources
Connect with local foster agencies, social workers, and community resources before you get an emergency placement. Understand what financial assistance, training, counselling, and other services are available for foster families and children. That way you can immediately access any resources you need.
Having the contact information for a foster support group, your social worker, and local foster families can also provide much-needed help if issues arise. Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance.
Stay Calm and Flexible
Despite the best preparations, you will likely feel nervous and even overwhelmed when you do get called for an emergency foster placement. Remember to stay calm, be patient, and remain flexible. Every child and situation are unique.
If your initial plans or routines don’t seem to be working, be willing to adjust. With time, compassion and the right support, both you and the child will find your footing.
Preparing on multiple fronts can help you provide stability for a child when an emergency foster care placement occurs. From readying supplies and space to lining up emotional support, take steps to be as ready as possible. But also prepare yourself to be flexible and adapt as needed once a child enters your home.