How do I manage contact with the birth family?

In most cases, foster children will have some form of contact with their birth parents. This can be a difficult and sensitive situation to manage, however, we have some tips to help you:

• Speak positively about their birth families, even if you don’t agree with the events that led to their placement. This will help strengthen the bond between your foster child and their family, and it could help work towards reunification if this is the goal.
• Make a conscious effort to learn things about their family and show them that they’ve been heard by creating activities that involve their interests. This is important because the child will likely have similar interests to their birth parents.
• Be aware of changes in their behaviour after they have been to their birth families. If they seem upset or sad, communicate and support them. If they seem happier, ask if they had a nice time, be supportive and ask questions.
• Prepare for visits by opening the lines of communication with your foster child beforehand. This will give them an environment to voice any concerns or feelings beforehand.

Be prepared for the opinions of birth parents who may feel resentment or jealousy over the fact that you are looking after their child. You can prepare for this through our 24-hour telephone support and weekly telephone call or by contacting your supervising social worker, among other forms of support.