On today's episode, we will conclude this 2 part series and talk about parenting children with attachment disorders. We will cover 6 key points to helping foster children feel safe and secure, comforted and supported, connected, experience consistency, feel encouraged and help you as the foster parent maintain boundaries in the foster home. All of these will help in developing bonds with your children, maintain emotional regulation, and handle behavioral issues effectively. We will also discuss the importance of self-care and refilling your emotional cup. I will share my tips to building a balanced routine that not only supports the needs of the children but also the mental and physical needs of everyone in the home.  You can find the workbook that supports this 2 part series in my foster parent group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/whattoexpectwhilefosteringandadopting After you listen to this episode, I would love for you to head on over and join our inner circle of foster mamas. Our Facebook group is your gateway to valuable resources and connection.   So, go grab your cup of coffee and let's dig in. XO-Christine Marie If you found this episode helpful, I would love for you to leave me a review on apple podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/what-to-expect-while-fostering-and-adopting-adopting/id1701306333

In this episode which is part 1 of a 2 part series, we talk about attachment disorders commonly observed in foster and adopted children. Attachment disorders relate to the bond children form with their primary caregiver right from birth, which significantly impacts their behavior. Children subjected to neglect, abuse, or abandonment often develop attachment disorders. We will discuss the 5 basic human needs that, when unfulfilled, can lead to these disorders. In this episode, focusing on children raised in foster or adoptive care, we explore the attachment styles they typically develop. Their experiences with neglect or inconsistent parenting often result in distinct attachment styles affecting their social interactions. We delve into avoidant, fearful, and anxious attachment styles, emphasizing their unique patterns of behavior, emotional response, and potential struggles in forming relationships. The ultimate aim is to help these children develop a secure attachment style, fostering trust in others and a positive self-image. To achieve this, we must first understand the signs and symptoms of attachment disorders. Identifying behaviors that can be linked to attachment disorders such as food issues, manipulative tactics, group setting difficulties, learning delays, and chronic anxiety. This episode is a comprehensive guide to recognizing, understanding, and addressing the unique needs of foster and adoptive children suffering from attachment disorders. By deciphering the root cause of these behaviors, you can respond to your child's needs effectively, fostering an environment that promotes their growth. Stay tuned for the next episode, equipped with practical tips for parenting children based on their attachment style and disorder. After you listen to this episode, I would love for you to head on over and join our inner circle of foster mamas. Our Facebook group is your gateway to valuable resources and connection.   So, go grab your cup of coffee and let's dig in. XO-Christine Marie If you found this episode helpful, I would love for you to leave me a review on apple podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/what-to-expect-while-fostering-and-adopting-adopting/id1701306333 Join the inner circle community of like-minded mamas at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/whattoexpectwhilefosteringandadopting

In this episode, we are going to dive into a lesser-discussed aspect of foster care: the mental health diagnoses of the foster children and then the topic of medication. When you become a foster parent, you often have to navigate the often-overwhelming world of mental health care. I personally, know that I wasn't prepared for the level of complexity and at many times needed to make tough decisions without the understanding needed to do so. You too, may find yourself walking through a reality of kiddos with multiple diagnoses and then ultimately, medication. So, lets prepare you heart and mind for what's at stake. It is possible that medications could hinder the healing that could happen for these children. Without knowing the entire history of a child, that is where we have a powerful tool that we have the ability to use in navigating these tough decisions. Prayer and Discernment.  My heart for today's episode is that you add Prayer and Discernment to the process of making these decisions with and for your foster children.  After you listen to this episode, I would love for you to head on over and join our inner circle of foster mamas. Our Facebook group is your gateway to valuable resources and connection.   So, go grab your cup of coffee and let's dig in. XO-Christine Marie If you found this episode helpful, I would love for you to leave me a review on apple podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/what-to-expect-while-fostering-and-adopting-adopting/id1701306333 Join the inner circle community of like-minded mamas at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/whattoexpectwhilefosteringandadopting

There is a dire need for emotional support in the foster parent community – a need that often is neglected resulting in overwhelming isolation and unfortunate situations. I will be vulnerably sharing one of the hardest lessons I learned as a foster parent while fostering and how it impacted the emotional struggles I faced. This episode will cover the importance of support systems, self-care and accessibility to emotional outlets and professional help to recharge and rejuvenate.  My 20/20 hindsight vision since exiting the foster care world has been profound. Including the misconceptions about what I thought was my foster parent role and how I should have been maintaining a professional relationship with the caseworker vs. a peer relationship.  I pray this is an enlightening episode for anyone involved or interested in the journey of foster parenting. After you listen to this episode, I would love for you to head on over and join our inner circle of foster mamas. Our Facebook group is your gateway to valuable resources and connection.   So, go grab your cup of coffee and let's dig in. XO-Christine Marie If you found this episode helpful, I would love for you to leave me a review on apple podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/what-to-expect-while-fostering-and-adopting-adopting/id1701306333 Join the inner circle community of like-minded mamas at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/whattoexpectwhilefosteringandadopting

Join me today in an insightful edition of 'What to Expect While Fostering and Adopting' podcast, as we unravel the complexities of self-sabotaging behaviors prevalent among foster children. Dealing with challenging behaviors can seem perplexing, but understanding the root causes can pave the way towards significant change. Diving deep into the neuroscience behind these actions, the episode unveils how traumatic experiences, subconscious mind, and fear of failure contribute to self-sabotage. We will discuss the importance of brain-reprogramming, offering hope for both foster parents and foster children. Discover how empathy, open conversations, and practical strategies can aid in reshaping the child's mind, moving them from self-preservation responses to healthier alternatives. With perseverance and care, caregivers have the power to turn the tide and positively transform lives. Tune in for practical tips and words of encouragement for your foster care journey. After you listen to this episode, I would love for you to head on over and join our inner circle of foster mamas. Our Facebook group is your gateway to valuable resources, connection and to find out more about 1:1 coaching.   So, go grab your cup of coffee and let's dig in. Christine Marie If you found this episode helpful, I would love for you to leave me a review on apple podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/what-to-expect-while-fostering-and-adopting-adopting/id1701306333 Join the inner circle community of like-minded mamas at:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/whattoexpectwhilefosteringandadopting Follow me on Instagram at:  https://www.instagram.com/its.christinemarie

Difficult Foster parenting lessons: Losing my personal identity, how I reclaimed it and practical tips for you on your journey. Today's episode is definitely at the top list of things I wish I knew prior to becoming a foster parent. All of the coulda, woulda, shouldas are popping up in my memories as I talk through this with you today. It also makes me wonder how many other foster mama friends feel the pressure to want to be perfect, do everything the right way and push themselves to the brink of exhaustion on a daily basis? I am hoping this episode will act as almost a bumper guard for you and practical things you can put in place immediately.  After you listen to this episode, I would love for you to head on over and join our inner circle of foster mamas. Our Facebook group is your gateway to valuable resources and connection.   So, go grab your cup of coffee and let's dig in. Christine Marie If you found this episode helpful, I would love for you to leave me a review on apple podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/what-to-expect-while-fostering-and-adopting-adopting/id1701306333 Join the inner circle community of like-minded mamas at:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/whattoexpectwhilefosteringandadopting Follow me on Instagram at:  https://www.instagram.com/its.christinemarie

29% of people who were asked, believe that foster families take in so many foster children because they are doing it for the money.    The other day, I saw a video that confirmed that people do believe this and it was upsetting but also validation that it needs to be discussed. In this episode, we are going to break this down, and talk about perception vs. reality. Why do some children receive a higher level of care payment and how to know what you're supposed to pay for with this money.    Money can be an uncomfortable conversation for foster parents and especially when you're stepping out into this for the first time. We're also going to talk about the difference between an income and a stipend and why it matters.    After you listen to this episode, I would love for you to head on over to my private Facebook group and share what you believed about this topic before today's episode and then after you listened. Did it shift your perspective or do you see things differently now?   So, go grab your cup of coffee and let's dig in. If you found this episode helpful, I would love for you to leave me a review on apple podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/what-to-expect-while-fostering-and-adopting-adopting/id1701306333 Join our Facebook community of like-minded mamas at:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/whattoexpectwhilefosteringandadopting Follow me on Instagram at:  https://www.instagram.com/its.christinemarie   article cited: https://youthlaw.org/news/foster-parents-who-are-they-and-what-are-their-motivations

Understanding the different types of attachment disorders in foster children is critically important to understanding how to best parent them. There are 4 different types of attachment disorders that we will discuss on today's episode. I will also share a list of strategies to help your foster child begin adjusting to your home and family.  We will cover many topics in today's episode including clear boundaries, patience and grace, creating routines for your children, the importance of play, being trauma informed, support for the foster parent, celebrating every small win and my upcoming membership group. I would love for you to head on over to my private Facebook group after you listen to this episode and share which strategies you use in your home and add to the list of what you find important. I truly believe it is possible to help foster children begin to attach and find healing from their trauma and you are such an important part of this. So, go grab your cup of coffee and let's dig in. If you found this episode helpful, I would love for you to leave me a review on apple podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/what-to-expect-while-fostering-and-adopting-adopting/id1701306333 Join our Facebook community of like-minded mamas at:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/whattoexpectwhilefosteringandadopting Follow me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/its.christinemarie/

Does affording Christmas gifts for your foster children overwhelm you? Are you not sure how to navigate the busy season and also remain present with your foster/ adoptive and biological children? Are you wanting to help more kiddos than just the ones in your home but not sure what to do or where to begin? Adding foster children to your home during the holidays can be overwhelming but it definitely doesn't need to be. In today's episode, were going to talk about where to find resources, planning for a busy Christmas and how to choose the right gifts for the children in your home.  Were also going to talk about how you can make a bigger impact and help more foster children in your own community. Go grab your cup of coffee and let's dig in. If you found this episode helpful, I would love for you to leave me a review on apple podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/what-to-expect-while-fostering-and-adopting-adopting/id1701306333 Join our Facebook community of like-minded mamas at:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/whattoexpectwhilefosteringandadopting Follow me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/its.christinemarie/

Are you wanting to adopt, feel called to adopt a child or grow your family through the foster care system? When I wanted to grow our family through adoption, it all seemed so overwhelming, and I didn't know how to navigate such a complicated system. I can't wait to share with you, 3 ways that may help shorten your journey.  In this episode, I discuss several websites and how you can utilize them in your journey.  www.adoptuskids.org  www.adoptamericanetwork.com www.raisethefuture.org www.wiaa.org I hope todays episode brings your 1 step closer in your adoption journey, helps your find more peace in choosing a direction and lessens the overwhelm. If you found this episode helpful, I would love for you to leave me a review on apple podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/what-to-expect-while-fostering-and-adopting-adopting/id1701306333 Join our Facebook community of like-minded mamas at:   What to Expect While Fostering and Adopting | Facebook Follow me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/its.christinemarie/

I know I have experienced this and wish I knew what to do when this happened. Foster parenting can be such an emotional journey and having a good relationship with your childs caseworker absolutely makes it easier. Today I will be sharing tips with you so you can begin the relationship in the right way and plan for success. We will also discuss what to do when you have tried everything and it's not working.  I also have an announcement at the end of the episode today that I am so excited to share with you.  If you found this episode helpful, I would love for you to leave me a review on apple podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/what-to-expect-while-fostering-and-adopting-adopting/id1701306333 Join our Facebook community of like-minded mamas at:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/whattoexpectwhilefosteringandadopting Follow me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/its.christinemarie/

If you are a new foster or adoptive parent, you definitely don't want to miss this episode.  I will be sharing my top 5 tips that you can implement immediately to help you have a less stressful and more emotionally connected holiday season. As a previous foster parent of 10 years and taking in 77 foster children, we had a lot of holiday events and experiences to practice what worked and what didn't work. I am skipping over all the things that didn't work and sharing the top things that did work.  We will be discussing solutions for all ages and developmental milestones.  I would love to know if you implemented any of these tips and if so, which worked best for your family and children.  If you found this episode helpful, I would love for you to leave me a review on the app that you found me on. Then, I would love for you to join our Facebook community of likeminded mamas at:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/whattoexpectwhilefosteringandadopting I am so thankful you found me and can't wait to hear about your journey. Christine Marie

She was 3 when she moved to our home as a foster child. When she became available for adoption, over 100 families applied to adopt her. Thankfully we were chosen as her forever family and she became our daughter when she was 5. She was the perfect child so I never imagined we would face the challenges that we did. As I share the journey with you today, I hope you find hope and encouragement in the journey.  If you found this episode helpful, I would love for you to leave me a review and then join our Facebook community of like-minded mamas at:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/whattoexpectwhilefosteringandadopting You can also now follow me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/its.christinemarie/

I remember the one thing that worried me the most as a foster parent and that was the thought of being accused of abuse or neglect. Once it happened, it sent my mind spinning because I didn't know what to do. I felt overwhelmed with emotions and had no one to ask because my certifier suddenly couldn't discuss anything with me.  Would I be found guilty of abuse? Would this go on my record? Would I be able to adopt? Do I need to hire an attorney? I certainly didn't have anyone to help me navigate these complicated questions so I am thankful we get to dig into this today. I will be sharing what happens when you have an allegation, how long the investigation takes and what does Founded, unfounded and unable to determine actually mean.   If you found this episode helpful, I would love for you to leave me a review and then join our Facebook community of like-minded mamas at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/whattoexpectwhilefosteringandadopting   You can also now follow me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/its.christinemarie/

I got the call asking me to take him in as a foster care placement when he was 6. I had no idea the level of care that he would require but I was willing to try. The caseworker warned me that this would be a challenging case because of his level of abuse and neglect but I didn't know what I didn't know. She told me that he had non-verbal autism (ASD), was labeled as feral and was extremely traumatized.  When I picked him up from a Mcdonalds parking lot, we never imagined the growth and transformation that would happen within a period of 6 years.  This is our story.  If you found this episode helpful, I would love for you to leave me a review on the app that you found me on. Then, I would love for you to join our Facebook community of likeminded mamas at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/whattoexpectwhilefosteringandadopting I am so thankful you found me and can't wait to hear about your journey. Christine Marie

It's the biggest first decision that every potential foster and adoptive parent makes, and it sets the trajectory for the beginning of your journey. It absolutely matters. Have you ever wondered if there was a right number of kiddos you should take in as a first-time foster parent? Have you wondered what age range to choose, or should you be open to all ages? Is there a right number and if so, how do I know?  Maybe you're already a foster parent and haven't had a child placed with you that is on the path towards adoption. Do you take in more children? How do you know when the right time is to add another child? It can be an overwhelming decision when you aren't sure who to ask. If you're anything like I was, you're ready and eager to begin the journey of foster care and adoption.   If you have had or have these questions, this episode is perfect for you. We will talk about statistics with each age group, time requirements for first time foster parents and appointments you want to set up for your new foster child.    If you found this episode helpful, I would love for you to leave me a review on the app that you found me on. Then, I would love for you to join our Facebook community of likeminded mamas at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/whattoeexpectwhilefosteringandadopting   I am so thankful you found me and can't wait to hear about your journey. Christine Marie

Do you have a vision of the perfect child you wanted to adopt? Are you a foster parent or in waiting to adopt a child?  Have you imagined what your foster care journey would be like or maybe you're in the middle of it right now? If any of this sounds like you, this episode is for you.  I remember when I dreamt of bringing home our forever daughter. I imagined what she would look like, be like and who she would become. I thought my love would be enough to erase all of the hard things she had gone through. When it wasn't, it sent me into a tailspin.  There's a better way through and I am so excited for you to begin to set a vision. No matter where you are in your journey, you can hit the pause button and create vision with God. Are you ready to begin living intentionally and with purpose? Go grab your cup of coffee and let's get started. If you found this episode helpful, I would love for you to leave me a review and then join our Facebook community at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/whattoeexpectwhilefosteringandadopting

CANS stands for the Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths assessment. Understanding CANS will help you to best serve the child or teen placed in your home as a foster placement. It will also help you know the purpose behind the assessment being done. I have carefully marked this episode as explicit because it discusses sensitive topics that may not be suitable for young ears to listen to.  If you found this episode helpful, I would love for you to leave me a review and then join our Facebook community of like-minded mamas at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/whattoeexpectwhilefosteringandadopting     You can find more information on CANS at: The Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths (CANS) – Praed Foundation

Todays episode is vulnerable. I’m sharing my own mental health diagnosis’ with you and giving you tools to help thrive as a foster parent. It’s filled with so many lessons that I learned in the 10 years we spent as foster parents. Learning these lessons was absolutely not easy and I pray that by sharing them with you, it will make your journey so much easier. If you found this episode helpful, I would love for you to leave me a review and then join our Facebook community of like minded mamas at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/whattoeexpectwhilefosteringandadopting   You can also find the Spiritual Gifts test I shared on todays episode at: https://spiritualgiftstest.com/ Blessings, Christine

Learning these lessons was absolutely not easy and I pray that by sharing them with you, it will make your journey so much easier. ❤️ If you found this episode helpful, I would love for you to leave me a review and then join our Facebook community of like minded mamas at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/whattoeexpectwhilefosteringandadopting   Blessings, Christine