Foster Parenting 101 By Pamela Caywood

Pam, Bill & Grace

I am very happy to introduce a new segment of articles which will discuss how to master foster parenting. These articles will be written by Jeffrey Silla. He is the proud father of 7 children (4 of his own and 3 foster children). Six years ago, Jeff and his wife Patty decided to open their home to help raise foster children. Over these years they have had 15 different foster children ranging from 9 weeks old to 19 years old. Each child has a new set of issues and needs. Helping each one to adjust to a new family and improve his outlook has equipped Jeffrey to master many helpful techniques to make this job somewhat easier. Jeff has started up a brand new site dedicated to foster parenting located at www.fostercare.net.

These articles will deal with the following topics:

Jeff would like to refer to this section as the Foster Parent "Round Table" to encourage your questions and input. This round table is not just an article section but a place where you can send your questions and get some unique ideas to attempt at solving your most difficult needs. In future articles, he will discuss pertinent questions sent to him while keeping all personal information(names ages, towns or any identifying information) strictly confidential. Receiving input and advice from others will help you to succeed as a foster parent.

Here are three points that will be stressed in these articles:

1. Make a commitment to be the best that you can be.
2. Realize that it will be hard work.
3. Make it fun, life is too short to get stressed out!

We hope that you enjoy the helpful hints offered in this new section!

Pamela Caywood is the proud mother of 3 year old Grace and is expecting her second child in October.