You are not alone! Becoming a new foster parent is overwhelming for most. I always say it takes about 6 weeks before it feels like things settle in and you begin to create a new norm for your home. I highly recommend connecting with others who are in the foster care journey like you; especially those who have been on the journey longer than you. When we started fostering, our kiddo did not have a CMDP number set up for medical and he had an ear infection, we did not receive our monthly reimbursements for 3 months, and felt so lost on where to go or what to do. A wonderful foster mom took me under her wing and showed me the ropes. She encouraged me on the days I felt overwhelmed and helped me better understand how to maneuver through the system. I was a better foster mom because of her help.

If you are connected to natural connections where there are other foster parents, schools, churches, extra-curricular activities with your kids, that is great! If you are not, I highly recommend plugging into a foster parent support group or attending events specifically for foster/adoptive parents so you can build relationships with others who are on this journey. We are stronger together.

Thank you for your great question! If you have questions, send them to #youaskedfa or Kim@fosteraz.com