The Start of Fall: A Season of Change
As fall begins (September 22,) foster families are faced with many new opportunities. The new school year can be overwhelming for children who may be adjusting to new environments, routines, and relationships. Foster parents play a key role in offering the stability and support needed to help children navigate these transitions.
At the same time, fall provides moments for family bonding. The following activities can make children feel more at home with the transition into the new fall season:
- Pumpkin picking
- Baking fall treats
- Nature walks
- Cozy movie nights
These simple traditions create a sense of connection and belonging for children in care throughout the transition.
For foster parents, fall is also a time of reflection. While balancing the needs of their foster children with their own can be challenging, the season’s focus on change and growth serves as a reminder of the importance of patience, love, and resilience.
Nebraska
Michelle became a kinship home for a teenager in July of 2023. The male teen was on respite at her home, visiting her sister. The male teen enjoyed the week at Michelle’s home so much that he said he would like to move in with her. READ MORE HERE
Oklahoma
James and Rikki Geck have been foster parents with TFI since 2016. Over the years, the Gecks have fostered multiple children in their home, many in which were reintegrated with their biological families. The Gecks have also welcomed two adopted children into their family, and they are in the process of adopting their adopted child’s sister as well. READ MORE HERE
Kansas
Patrick and Angel Brazeal helped and supported a 15-year-old boy reintegrating with his mother on July 8th, and later that day accepted a sibling group of two brothers who needed emergency respite through the weekend. The boys ended up needing long term placement due to not being able to return to their previous placement. Angel and Patrick accepted them both long term. READ MORE HERE
Texas
Nicholas and Katie Simons are a newly licensed foster family. They received their license this past August and are eager to foster and adopt children and provide a loving home. They had their first child placed on September 6th. READ MORE HERE
Training Article:
Using Positive Reinforcement to Improve your Child’s Behavior
Parenting is a rewarding yet challenging journey that requires effective strategies to guide children’s behavior. Positive Reinforcement is a powerful tool that can be utilized to foster positive behaviors in children. By emphasizing and rewarding desirable actions, parents can create a nurturing environment that promotes growth, confidence, and self-discipline. In this article, we will explore the benefits of positive reinforcement and provide practical tips on how to implement it effectively.
Source: Re-reported by SheSight Magazine from the originally published in Parents.com.
More Trainings Available
Including:
- Abusive Head Trauma
- ACE (Adverse Childhood Experiences)
- Attachment, Separation, Grief, and Loss
- Crisis Intervention and Verbal De-Escalation
- MAPP Foundations Refresher
Find classes HERE
Below are our foster parents celebrating a milestone anniversary as a TFI Foster Parent! We love having you as part of Team TFI!
10 years+Steven & Sheila Fagan (10 years) Don & Stacie Marquis (11 years) Donna Craig (12 years) Donna Daniels (15 years) Kelly Meyer (15 years) Jason & Crystal Owen (19 years)
5 yearsTravis & Lindy Katzer Nicole “Nicki” McDowell Gaven Thompson & Nikki McDaniel
1 yearDerek & Susan Mead Sarah Quinzy Devin & Angie Thomas Michael Bengtzen & Tamara Alcott-Bengtzen Tomika Mack Destaney Nestell Brandon & Theresa Phillips Brian & Jennifer Roberts Sabrina Townsell |