Life in Foster Care

The State of Foster Care in Virginia

Virginia Foster Care Statistics Updated as of August 2025 & What This Means For Aspiring Foster Families

What Happens to Foster Children When They Turn 18?

Are you interested in learning about older foster children? Would you mind reading to understand what it means to age out of the foster care system? The challenges that our foster youth will have?

How To Build Trust With Your Foster and Adoptive Children

Adults have broken the trust of your kid so many times before.  This is your opportunity to rebuild twelve ideas to help you build trust with your foster child.

What Does My Foster Child Call Me? Communication With Foster Children

When the child is first placed in your home, it is ideal for introducing yourself by the name you would like the child to call you. First impressions begin as soon as the case manager and/or the licensing agency arrive in the house with the child. While addressing the case manager and the child, use

A Glimpse Into The Life Of A Foster Parent

An interview with one of Extra Special Parent's very own foster parents, Chrystal.  And the journey of being a foster parent in Richmond, Virginia.

Holidays and starting new traditions with your foster child

5 ways to help foster children enjoy the holiday season

How to build resilience in children in Virginia foster care

Children in foster care often face trauma and uncertainty, making resiliency a vital skill for their growth and well-being.  Resilience is the ability to recover from hardship, adapt, and move forward with strength.  Foster youth may struggle with grief, regulation of emotions, and trust, but with the proper support, they can learn to bounce back.

Maintaining Relationships with Foster Youth After Returning Home

So often, when speaking about fostering youth, there is an unspoken fear of "losing" the children once they return home. But in many situations, that does not have to be the case.

When A Foster Child Leaves Your Home: how do you cope?

A foster family's Perspective is when a child leaves your home and how they support each other and the bio children in the home.

The Importance of Keeping Foster Siblings Together in VA

When children in the United States are placed in foster care one of the most important things to do is to keep sibling groups together. Separating a sibling group can cause so much more harm to a child who is already dealing with so much change and trauma.

Fostering teenagers In foster care

Fostering teens has been where I have found my niche as a foster parent. 

Disney's "Safety" and how it relates to child welfare in VA

Disney's Safety shows why kinship care matters in Virginia foster care.  Learn how relatives provide stability, reduce trauma, and keep families connected.

How I became a foster parent - AJ's journey

What makes an aspiring FBI Cybersecurity professional change their entire career goals during their sophomore year in college? Fate. 

How to Introduce a Foster Child to Friends and Family

This conversation should be tailored to the age and developmental level of the foster or adoptive child; children and youth will have different preferences depending if you are talking to your nuclear family or extended family members. Young people will be very open to guiding you.

April is National Child Abuse Prevention month how to help

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, but protecting children should be a year-round effort.  This blog highlights eight practical ways everyone can help, from raising awareness and sharing resources to teaching kids their rights and knowing the signs of abuse.  It encourages volunteering, supporting families, and reporting concerns when necessary. 

Setting goals and celebrations for children in Foster Care

Goal setting and celebrating special holidays with kids in foster care are essential.  Many children have not had great memories of the holidays.

Returning A Foster Child To Biological Family: The Foster Parent's Role

So often, we focus on the beginning of the fostering journey. That is undoubtedly important, as many people want to know what they've signed up for as foster parents.

Equally important is helping youth and families through their path to permanency and eventually helping youth transition back to their biological families. When people find out that I work in the foster care realm, the phrase "I just don't think I could let them go," referring to the children, comes up in almost every conversation.

How Foster children feel and the safety they seek

When a child enters foster care through social services, it is seen as a traumatic experience for all children in foster care; they lose so much, regardless of how valid the reason the child was removed for their safety or how well prepared and well-intentioned the foster family is youth in foster care have all experience some type of child abuse or neglect from a birth family.

Lets Lower The Teen Pregnancy Rate For Kids In Foster Care

I am a twenty-one-year-old woman who is passionate about lowering the high rates of adolescent pregnancies in women who were children in foster care.

Fostering Futures For Children In Virginia Foster Care

The Fostering Futures assistance program enables LDSS to provide financial and social services for foster care recipients up to the age of 21.  Suppose you turned 18 in foster care or a DJJ while having been in foster care after July 1st, 2016.  In that case, you're eligible to participate in this program supported by the local government agencies and the Virginia social services department.  A voluntary program gives you $500 monthly to cover housing, food, clothing, supplies, education, and job training assistance.

My life in foster care in Virginia

For me, being in foster care was completely exhausting. I say exhausting because every day, I woke up wondering if that was the day I was going to have to move, yet again, to another placement. 

How to help a Foster child with trauma at Halloween

Fear is a normal and natural part of childhood development for children. Children who are in Foster Care and have suffered trauma are often scared of the dark, thunderstorms, loud voices, or even monsters under their bed, and maybe scary Halloween costumes, Halloween parties, scary Halloween decorations, and, like many adults, scary clown costumes.

Brother sister & sibling groups helping kids in Foster care

In Virginia, most foster children have siblings, yet many are separated into different homes.  Research shows children thrive emotionally, behaviorally, and developmentally when placed with their brothers or sisters.  Sibling bonds offer comfort, stability, and a sense of belonging during challenging times.  While challenges exist, such as limited foster homes, special needs, or staggered placements, keeping siblings together is critical for stability and permanency.  When joint placement isn't possible, maintaining sibling connections through visits or calls remains essential.

First Few Days Dealing with a Virtual Learning Experience

Virtual learning for stressed parents 5 tips and 3 videos

Virginia foster care statistics and outcomes for 2019

Virginia Foster Care Statistic statistics for 2019 show that Virginia is still struggling with the disproportionally high need for Therapeutic Foster Care (TFC) homes for children ten years old and above. In this last year, the number of children in Foster Care in Virginia has increased from 5339 children in January 2019 to 5577 in December 2019[i]. 

Understanding and Helping Teenagers in Foster Care

So how do you help a teen who is in foster care? When you ask first-time foster parents about what age they desire to work with, most will not say teens. Each stage of development can be difficult for a foster parent, whether diapers or tantrums or teens but the foster care system has foster youth of all ages.

The advantages of being a foster parent of teenagers in VA

Foster teenager speaking to a foster parent in Virginia

Medically Fragile Children In Virginia Foster Care System

Medically fragile children in the Virginia foster care system are diverse. They can be any age, from infants to teens. They could have been born with a chronic health condition or are experiencing an acute health condition. They all have in common that they are sick, alone, and in need of a loving foster parent who will make them feel safe.

Maybe the best therapist has a cold nose and a wagging tail.

How are therapeutic dogs used in foster care in Virginia?  What impact do these dogs have on kids who encounter a wagging tail during stress and confusion?

Why should I be a Foster Parent for Children in Virginia?

Looking for a reason to be a foster parent, we can help; we have so many reasons here you will be able to say yes, I can do this, or maybe I should wait. 

Animal Assisted Interventions In Foster Care: Support Animals

Jax, III, is a facility/pet therapy dog from Canine Companions for Independence.  He is a 5-year-old Labrador/Golden Retriever cross.  Jax was carefully bred and expertly trained, specifically for working with children, so he is friendly, fun, very sweet, and gentle.  Jax is trustworthy in professional environments and can perform over 40 commands designed to motivate and inspire the children we serve.

Aged Out: How to Help Teenagers in Virginia Foster Care

These youth usually do not have a stable family they can rely on for assistance. Depending on the state where they live, young adults in foster care "age out" of the foster care system at either 18 or 21.  Aging out is the process that occurs when youth must leave the foster care system because they were never adopted and are too old to stay in care. In Virginia, a child may transition to "Fostering Futures" and receive modest financial assistance until they reach the age of 21.  Only about 50% of foster youth will complete a high school diploma.

How to Help a Foster or Adoptive Child with Anxiety

Helping a child with anxiety settle into your home is crucial. A child who may have had many placements before will be very wary of your new home.

What is a Foster Parent? Things You Need to Know

A foster parent steps in to care for children in custody when birth families need support.  In Virginia, foster care is typically temporary, averaging two years, as biological parents work toward reunification.  Foster parents offer stability, love, and a safe home.  Many children become adoptable, with approximately 40% being adopted by their foster caregivers.  Training and support through agencies like FosterVA and Extra Special Parents help guide new foster parents.  You're not alone in giving a child hope and a second chance.

Facts About Mental Health In Foster Care

Understanding Mental health in children in Foster Care is so important for their success.

Why Do Foster Children End Up Homeless After Turning 18?

Homelessness is partly due to a failure of state systems to ease the transition to adulthood. In the first four years after aging out of foster care, approximately 20% of former foster youth will experience homelessness. Certain factors can heighten the likelihood of becoming homeless after time in the foster care system. 

 

How Many Foster Kids Graduate from High School?

High school graduation rates for foster youth are much lower than those of the general population, with just over half earning a diploma.  Frequent school changes, unstable placements, and a lack of long-term support create barriers to success.  Stability, consistent schooling, and supportive foster families have a significant impact on improving educational outcomes for children in care.

How PTSD in Foster Children Impacts Long-Term Outcomes

PTSD in children under the age of seven is different than in adults. Their developmental stage affects their initial and long-term response and treatment for PTSD.

Experts report that preschool children diagnosed with PTSD demonstrate impaired functioning. This is evident in many aspects of their lives.

Kinship Care and How it Relates to Foster Care in Virginia

Kinship care involves placing a child with a family member, meaning that a child removed from their home lives with a relative or family friend instead of a foster family.  However, there are varying levels of kinship care.

How Fostering Children Can Change Your Life

He stated that he thought it would all be one-sided since he was the one who reached out to help the child.  Still, in reality, quickly, he was shown that it is a symbiotic relationship once you get your child to love and care for.  He's learning so much about himself, and I could feel the emotion as he explained it with amazement.  I recall that he couldn't even see this far down the pike initially, and now he's raving over the bond they have formed. 

What is Congregate Care in Virginia?

The term "congregate care" summarizes any out-of-home placement for foster children. Congregate care could include group homes, residential facilities, emergency shelters, psychiatric institutions, residential treatment centers (RTC), or in-patient hospitals.

What Does LGBTQ and LGBTQIA+ Mean?

You've probably heard the initialism of LGBT or LGBTQ before. You might not know what it means or why it keeps getting longer. The full version is LGBTQIA+, but it's only recently that it was expanded. Even among the LGBTQ community, some people use LGBT or LGBT+. 

Foster Child Meaning: What Is the Meaning of a Foster Child?

In simple terms, a foster child is a minor placed in state custody. Foster children are placed with state-licensed adults that care for the child rather than a guardian or parent. Youth may enter the foster system for many reasons, but the most common include abuse, neglect, or being in an unsafe home environment. 

Foster Care to Success: A Complete Guide

The nonprofit organization, Foster Care to Success (FC2S), strives to help young, college-bound foster care adults. The organization provides information, support, and funding to help kids continue their education. 

FC2S provides grants, living stipends, book money, and emergency funding. They offer access to academic coaches, personal mentors, and internship opportunities. 

Some programs FC2S provides: 

Academic success coaching Education training vouchers

How to Connect With a Teenager in Foster Care

If fostering a teen sounds daunting, don't worry. We're here to help you with great ways to connect with, build trust with, and spend time with foster care teenagers. So, if you're a foster parent who wants to help, here are some ways to make a big difference in a teenager's life. 

Supporting Foster Youth During the Holidays

Try to understand that not all foster youth feel comfortable celebrating the holidays. It might bring up traumatic memories for them. Remain empathetic, and never push them to do something uncomfortable.

Talk to them and ask what would make them feel better. Remember to remain flexible, as that's crucial to becoming successful foster parents.

Honor their old traditions if you can. Doing so might help you learn more about other cultures, ethnicities, etc.

The Benefits of Foster Care: How It Impacts Children's Lives

Foster care provides children with a second chance to enjoy a lifestyle they couldn’t receive at their original home. These children get the opportunity to develop their basic life skills and participate in extracurriculars, all while having a stable home environment. Here is how the foster care system benefits and impacts the lives of children in Virginia:

Emotional Challenges of Foster Parenting in Virginia

Foster parenting in Virginia presents emotional challenges that require patience, resilience, and compassion. By navigating the complexities of trust, trauma, and legalities, foster parents can provide stable environments for children in need. Balancing self-care and advocating for resources is essential, as is fostering cultural competence and positive relationships. Celebrating milestones acknowledges the journey's significance, offering hope and support for all involved.

Tips for Building Strong Relationships with Foster Children in Virginia

Building strong relationships with foster children in Virginia requires patience, consistency, and empathy. You should listen carefully to their needs and worries and provide a safe place for them to express themselves. You should be present in their lives, attending school events and appointments. Show genuine interest in their hobbies and what they do. 

The Impact of Foster Care on Foster Parents' Biological Children in Virginia

The impact of foster care on the kids of foster parents in Virginia is really big. It affects how they feel, how their family works, and what they do daily. Foster kids might need extra attention, making things hard for their foster siblings. The kids who are already in the family might feel left out, mad, or like they're not getting enough attention. 

 

Addressing Attachment and Bonding in Foster Care in Virginia

Ensuring kids in foster care in Virginia feel connected and loved is crucial for their happiness and well-being. Kids who have strong relationships with their caregivers feel safe and stable. These close bonds are necessary for them to trust people or feel close to others as they grow up. 

 

The Benefits of Respite Care for Foster Parents in Virginia

Respite care is necessary for foster parents in Virginia. It gives them relief, support, and chances to grow personally. When foster parents care for themselves and use resources, they can better care for their children while staying healthy. Respite care doesn't just help individual families—it also strengthens and stabilizes the foster care community.

 

Supporting LGBTQ+ Foster Youth in Virginia

Supporting LGBTQ+ foster youth in Virginia is important. We must ensure they're safe, happy, and have the same chances as everyone else. By creating welcoming environments, we help them do well. This support is crucial because LGBTQ+ foster youth face unique challenges like discrimination and rejection. We can help by having good policies and programs in place. These can help them reach their goals.

 

Navigating the Challenges of Foster Parenting Teens in Virginia

Parenting teens in foster care in Virginia presents special challenges. It requires flexibility and understanding. This topic is noteworthy because vulnerable teens in foster care need support. Virginia's foster care system needs stable and caring caregivers. Teens in foster care often have emotional and behavioral issues from their past. 

 

Ultimate Guide to Virginia Foster Care Support Services for New and Experienced Parents

Fostering is a highly fulfilling vocation, but it isn't easy. In Virginia, numerous services are offered to first-time and veteran foster parents. It is essential that foster parents are ready, assisted, and encouraged to do their best as they care for children in need. If you are new to fostering or have been a foster parent for some time, this guide will provide information on the services offered to foster parents in Virginia.

A Day in the Life of a Foster Parent in Virginia: Real Stories and Experiences

Becoming a foster parent is not easy, but it is worthwhile. Foster parents are vital in the lives of children needing protection and care in Virginia, as in other states. Every foster parent has their own story, but most face similar difficulties and have similar happy and significant life events.

A Foster Parents Guide to Help with Toileting to Puberty

Taking a foster child through their development, starting with toileting and ending with puberty, is tough yet rewarding work. Most foster children do not arrive with all their needs fulfilled. A foster parent provides a home, meals, and steady support during big changes. It’s common for these transitions to bring up emotions, slow development, or cause health issues. A ten-year-old child might be experiencing problems with toileting because of what they went through in the past. Sometimes, a foster child might begin to develop physical changes, but doesn’t know why.