Here are some tips for doing your best while you are separated from your child:

·     Remember that you do not have much time to show that you have resolved, or nearly resolved, the issues that led to your child's placement in the first place. 
Children and Youth Services will work with you to address these issues and arrange needed services, but only you can make changes in your family life.  Don’t wait to get started!

·     Work on your goals. 
You must work with professionals to solve the problems that led to your child going to live with a foster family or kinship caregivers.  Drug and alcohol abuse, neglecting a child's physical or medical needs, and injuring a child are common reasons that children are placed in the Agency's custody.  No matter what the reason, you will need to make changes in the way you care for your child, and in the way you live your own life. 

·     It is important that you remain involved in parenting your child through visits. 
Be on time, and consistently attend visits with your child.  Ask about whether you can write to your child, call your child, speak to his/her foster parents, etc. 

·     Reassure your child, but be honest about what you are working on and what the future may hold. 
Don’t make promises you are not able to keep.  Let your child know you are doing your best, and then do it. 

·     Let your child know where you are living, since children often worry about where their birth parents are when they are in placement.
If possible, give your child photos of your living space or describe it to him/her. 

·     Show your child that he/she is important to you. 
Listen to what your child tells you during visits.  Take an interest in their school, friends, and activities. 

·     Children often become close to their foster families.  This is not meant to hurt you or punish you for past mistakes. 
Try to keep a positive attitude toward your child's foster family.  They care about your child, too.  If you feel your child has been well cared for while in foster care, compliment the foster parents or their agency. 

·     Be positive. 
Visits with children are not the time to talk to caseworkers, criticize services or foster parents, or react negatively to the situation.  This will only upset your child, and will not improve your relationship with child welfare systems.  Use the time to talk with, read to, and play with your child.  Enjoy the time you have and practice what you are learning in classes and support groups. 

For more help, contact:

Snyder County Children and Youth Services

Suite 15, 713 Bridge Street

Selinsgrove, PA 17870

570-374-4570

570-374-4351(fax)