Caseworker Tips

1. You are the most important part of the system! Don't ever let anyone tell you differently. Without foster parents, the system would not work. We rely on you to love and nurture the children and to make sure they are safe and secure. We may not tell you that often enough, but we know this to be true.
   
   
2. We need your input. I know, it may not always seem that way, but we do value your input. We need to know how the child/ren are doing in your home. We need to know if they have problems and their special qualities. It can be difficult to reach us at times, so drop a note in the mail or send an e-mail if you can't reach us by phone. This is especially helpful as it gives us documentation for future planning.
   
   
3. Keep a log of events in your home. It doesn't have to be long, just a quick note at the end of the day or every couple of days can help immensely. Things that may not seem significant in isolation but are when understood in the context of a pattern of behaviors or actions. For instance, if the child has a bed wetting incident after every visit with their biological parent, it may indicate that we need to re-evaluate the timing or format of the visit.
   
   
4. Record details of significant events. Include details about what led up to the incident and the events of the previous 12 to 24 hours. This can help us to identify patterns in the child's behavior and hopefully work on a plan to improve behavior. Some details may not seem to be related but a pattern may become clear if we can look at documentation of the previous activities and events.
   
   
5. Let us know if you are needing a break--before you reach the 'breaking point'. We understand that a lot of little things can build up and result in burnout. Don't let it get to that point, if possible. Tell us when you are feeling frustrated so we can help to resolve the problems.
   
   
6. Know your limits. You can't help every child. It doesn't mean you are a bad parent--it just means you are human. If you are able to identify your limits, you will be able to provide better care to those children you are able to help.
   
   
7. Don't be afraid to say 'no'. Tell us when you are uncomfortable with something. We know that everyone must set boundaries and we will respect those boundaries if you let us know about them.
   
   
8. Tell us what you need. You have the right to expect support from your caseworker. We want to know how to support you. Everyone is different and we respect that. So let us know what you expect and need from the beginning so we can negotiate a relationship that will best serve the child.
   
   
9. Utilize family and community support systems. We can't always be there for you; that much is a given. But everyone needs to have a support system they can rely on. Don't be afraid to ask for help from your family, friends, church, community, etc. There are limits about how much information you can share but that doesn't mean you can't ask for help.
   
   
10. Encourage your friends, neighbors, family to consider foster care. We need more people like you who are concerned about the children in your community and willing to do something about it!