Music education can have a profound impact on children--educationally, creatively and therapeutically. For trauma-affected children, the foster home environment can be the perfect place to nurture a love of music and reap the benefits just stated. Here are some suggestions to make that happen.

Ms. Seals has been a JCFS Chicago foster parent for about 5 years. She frequently attends foster parent trainings and is a member of the JCFS Foster Parent Advisory Board.  She initially started fostering to care for her grandchildren.  She supported their safe and successful return home, but wasn’t sure she would keep fostering.  She spoke with JCFS staff, thought and prayed about what to do.  She decided to continue fostering.  “I have all this learning. I like kids and I am all by myself,” she said. 

Caitlin and Christopher have been licensed JCFS Chicago foster parents for about a year.  They welcomed their foster son (now age 10 months) into their home 7 months ago.  They want to give a “shout out” to their case manager, Jenna, of whom they are big fans!  They also really appreciate the other JCFS Chicago foster parents they have met who have been “wonderful, dedicated, and gracious.”

Here is more from Caitlin and Christopher.

Fostering someone else’s child is a tough parenting situation, and while a child is in your care it’s up to you to manage their behavior. The key to successful behavior management is to examine your own reaction to the behavior, change that reaction and in most cases, a more positive behavior will result. Here are some guidelines to consider:

At some point, parents have to set limits on their children's behavior. Children need structure and discipline, but not every kind of parental response is effective. Impulsively, some parents resort to harsh discipline and lecturing to help their children behave, but there are much better options.

As the holidays approach, we sometimes equate the value of a gift with the level of love and caring we have for a particular person, or as a symbol of the gifts of the Magi during Christmas or the gifts to commemorate the miracle of the oil lamps during Hanukah. In a larger context, it is important for parents and caregivers to understand the real meaning, cost and benefits of giving rewards to children and youth in care.

Encouragement can come in many forms. Sometimes it can be praise – a simple “good job!”  Other times, children need more than a kind word. It may take a hug, a special treat or giving more of your attention by playing a board game, watching a movie together or going to the park. There are hundreds of ways you can encourage a child, which, in turn will improve their self-esteem.

Without a doubt, graduating high school is a significant accomplishment for many youth with behavioral, emotional or intellectual challenges. There have been so many barriers and roadblocks that needed to be overcome, much of which wouldn't have happened without the care, concern and support of foster families. But that guidance cannot stop after graduation.

May is National Foster Care Month, a time to recognize that we each can play a part in enhancing the lives of children and youth in our care, especially JCFS foster parents and staff. 

By Mark Bermann, Recruiter/Trainer

The summer months, when recreational activities have their peak appeal to families, are good times to reach out to friends and neighbors to connect on many levels. As part of building a support system for you and your children in care, it’s important to build safety factors into the fun times that you’re looking forward to.