There are many myths about foster youth. Some based entirely on fiction other perpetuated by the media and antiquated views of little Annie orphan. Here are our top 5 holiday myths we’d like to debunk about kids in foster care.
1. Kids in Care Live in Drafty Turn of the Century Orphanages
While the early 1900s provided us with setting to many great films and classic American novels, the orphanage is a thing of the past. Some kids in foster care do live in homes with other children but they are smaller and known as group homes. The ideal placement for children is with a foster family but when that is not possible group homes work as short term and special case placements.
2. All Group Homes Aren’t Festive
Speaking of group homes. Despite the many myths about foster youth, these aren’t places that resemble mini prisons. They aren’t huge grey rooms full of grey cots and cement walls.
Obviously, many do not replicate the warmth of a family home but caregivers at group homes strive to create a calming environment for the kids. This includes making the group home festive for holidays.
3. All Kids in Care Celebrate Christmas
Foster youth are a diverse group of young people. Just like in the regular population, not all children in foster care celebrate Christmas. The best way to find out is simply by asking, maybe they celebrate another holiday or nothing at all. Speak up and help them celebrate the season in their own way.
4. If a Kid in Care is Happy they Must Not Miss Their Biological Family
Just because a child is in foster care and is happy doesn’t mean they don’t miss their biological family. Holidays are tough for a lot of people. Don’t diminish someone’s joy because of the myths about foster youth.
5. Lots of Gifts Make Situations Better
Now, this is a common myth regardless of who you are. More gifts do not always make a situation better. Allow foster youth to feel however they are feeling whether it matches your idea of the season. Please continue to gift and include them but don’t get upset if your expectations of how you want them to feel or act are not met.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, be open to just loving foster youth this holiday season. Continue to remember that myths exist and you don’t have to believe them.
If you’d like to help kids in foster care this holiday season, look into our Giving Back Box program.
