What Makes a Great Professional Parent
National Foster Care Month is here and RISE Services, Inc. Utah would like to thank all of our amazing foster and professional parents for their commitment and dedication to the children in their care. We are grateful for their willingness to open their homes to individuals who need a safe and loving family environment. If you’re interested in becoming a professional parent, you may be wondering what it takes to foster children and adults with developmental disabilities. Keep reading to learn more about our professional parenting services and what makes a great professional parent.
Compassion
Children and adults with developmental disabilities who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect are in desperate need of compassionate care. Because of their unique needs, they may have challenging behaviors or extenuating circumstances that require a lot of time and energy. Both professional parents and the individuals in their care are getting used to a new normal and it will take time for them to learn they can trust you. Children or adults will also need understanding, empathy, and grace, as they process their experiences and learn to cope with them in healthy ways.
Communication
Effective communication is essential for professional parents who welcome children or adults into their homes. Listening to advice, sharing perspectives, and advocating for foster children or adults are all a part of excellent communication. Professional parents also need to have open communication with their children or other family members living in the home to discuss any concerns or questions that may arise.
Collaboration
With professional parenting, collaboration often accompanies communication. It may be necessary to attend court-appointed meetings, speak to doctors at appointments, or meet with teachers. It’s likely that professional parents may meet biological parents or caregivers during visitations. They need to see that you genuinely care for them as you do for their child or adult family member. While it may be difficult, working with them to build a better life for their child or adult with a developmental disability can provide a positive example of compassionate parenting.
Conflict Resolution
Your ability to approach conflict resolution in a positive way is crucial for children or adults in foster care, especially if they experienced abuse in the past. They may test their limits or challenge family rules, but even if they do, they still need love and support while you guide them toward making good decisions. Foster children can learn to trust if they know they are safe and loved even when they mess up. Showing them how healthy families address issues such as arguing with siblings, doing homework, or helping with household chores, can help them heal and give them positive examples of loving and safe home environments.
Professional Parenting Services in Utah
RISE Utah provides professional parenting services for individuals diagnosed with developmental disabilities or mental health conditions. When children or adults are unable to live with their families, we equip, license, and support professional parents so they can provide them with stable and compassionate homes. Learn more about our professional parenting program, host homes, and respite care services, by contacting RISE today.
Source: Craft, Carrie. “6 Skills You Need to Master Before Becoming a Foster Parent.” Web article. Verywell Family. Dotdash Meredith, 22 Sep. 2020. Web. 09 May. 2023.
