Even if you’ve never heard of an IEP or a 504 (or any other education jargon), you might be intimated about supporting your foster child at school this year. But learning how to be this child’s advocate in school is an extension of the care you’re already offering.
Here are 3 B’s that will help!
- Be the Team Leaderc
Clear, Frequent Communication. Advocating for your foster or kinship child in school will require clear, regular communication between all of you. Establish your role with the team by opening clear communication channels. That could look like an introductory email or a phone call. Some parents prefer to do it in person, so they arrange a tour of the school and an introduction to the team before school starts. At the start of your relationship with the new team, you will likely need more frequent contact than after your child settles in. Issues like homework, behaviors in the classroom, family visitations, and things that directly impact the child’s school day will need to be tweaked as you get to know what works for this child.
Keep a Paper Trail. Many experienced foster parents stress the need to communicate primarily by email to establish a “paper trail.” Sadly, sometimes the accountability and documentation become necessary. It will come in handy if you need to change his services, request further evaluations, or brainstorm additional supports. Remember: if the school is unable or unwilling to provide the supports your child needs, you can inquire (again, do it in writing) about alternative resources to meet the needs you are observing. Be sure to keep your caseworker in the loop.
You are Your Foster Child’s Person. Remember that many schools don’t have much experience with foster or kinship families so teachers might need you to walk them through the ways you want to be involved. Conversations that establish you as the child’s point person should include the foster care caseworkers or CASA advocates
- Be Involved
Your foster child will benefit from the “whole” school experience, including extra-curricular activities and community-building events. Sign her up for soccer. Go to the school’s Fall Fest. Volunteer in the classroom. Set up play dates with other kids who attend the same school. Investing time and energy in these ways will go a long way to build your foster child’s social and emotional skills in fun, non-threatening settings. And many of these events offer your whole family some time to play together!
- Be Open
Expect that your foster child’s educational team will be willing to learn from you about what works well for the child. However, it will be beneficial for your child if you also are ready to learn from the educators.
When presented with suggestions for curriculum modifications, take time to read up on their recommendations. Talk with the team about how they plan to implement the changes; ask for examples to help you understand. If they ask you to consider evaluations for possible learning challenges, request reputable resources to educate yourself for the follow-up conversation. Brainstorm with his teachers for classroom management alternatives and embrace the information shared.
When you commit to these 3 Be’s to support this foster child in school, you’ll ensure she’ll feel safe in this new environment—and you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing you’ve done your best to set her up for and enjoyable and fruitful school year!
