This is an exciting time, but it is important to reunify your family slowly, as you and your child get to know each other again.

·     Be consistent.
Follow the rules that your child is used to from foster care.  Find out about his/her routine, likes and dislikes, rules and consequences, school performance, special needs, etc..  Maintain the same routines, rules, etc. as much as possible, especially during the first few weeks that he/she is home with you.

·     Get support.
Everyone is overwhelmed with the changes in your family - you, your child, your extended family, and your partner.  Get support to deal with the stress you are under.  Reach out to a clergy member, neighbor, friend, or other supportive person.  Seek professional counseling before things get out of control.

·     Learn as much as you can about child development, communication skills, and discipline techniques.
Your child may have entered a new developmental stage while he/she was away, and you need to know how to deal with him/her effectively.  If you took parenting classes while your child was in care, review the materials you received, or take another class.  Libraries have lots of books on parenting.

·     Listen to your child.
Make time to give each child attention each day.  Resist the urge to substitute giving "things" for giving "time."

·     Start with today.
You can't change the past, so start today as the new and better parent you are NOW!  Take care of yourself.  Pay attention to your own needs for rest, proper nutrition, adult relationships, and respite from your child.

·     Give yourself and your child time to adjust.
You are forming a new family, with healthier lives than you had before your child was placed in foster care.  It takes time, love, and patience to put all the pieces together.

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)