Helping Foster Children Manage Questions and Comments from Others

Imagine how difficult it must be to be in a new home with strangers, a new school and to make matters worse how do you handle the questions and comments that others have. Most children are not equipped to deal with this. It might be very helpful to discuss this with the child in advance- even role play so they get comfortable with this. The child needs to know that they have the right to privacy and to not answer any questions. "Why are you not living with your own family?" I'm not going to bore you with my long story, who wants to play soccer or race to the end of the playground. or Do you know how boring it is to get asked that question? and walk away. "Why don't your parents want you?" They do want me, but right now I am choosing to live here. Come on lets go do something else. "Do you miss your parents?" Sure. -distract the kids on to another activity. Some kids may prefer a "cover story" and for example that you are their uncle or aunt. That is ok as well. Remember this is all about make the child feel as safe and comfortable as possilbe.