Are you considering bringing a child in crisis into your home? We know firsthand that it is both a rewarding and humbling experience that can bring valuable lessons to both the child and the parents. However, it is important to be prepared before jumping into such a serious commitment. A large part of being prepared involves creating a positive environment for the child. While it may seem easy, there are certain aspects that could be overlooked. With 70 years of experience, Alabama Free Will Baptist Children’s Home can offer some useful advice.
Conversation
Let the child know that you are someone that they can talk to. No matter what they tell you, you will be there to guide and continue loving them. There are times that conversations can be tough, but these are needed, and knowing that they are possible makes the experience easier for the child. Provide positive reinforcement, as well. Let the child know you are proud of them. If you are married, you need to be on the same page with your spouse and providing the same message.
Time
Time will build a natural connection between parent and child. While things could be tough at first, keep being there when they need someone. Showing that you care on a consistent basis can do wonders for a child. In the rapid river that is a crisis situation, having steady parent figures provides a rock to hold on to.
Understanding
Caring for a child in crisis requires an almost superhuman amount of understanding. Understand that not every situation is fixable. Understand that there are many things out of both your and the child’s control. But while understanding these harsh realities, you can also understand that you were put into this child’s life for a reason. While you can’t change their family situation, you can provide constant support and knowledge to assist them in handling it.
Learn More About Us
Alabama Free Will Baptist Children’s Home celebrates its 70th birthday this month, and we are thrilled to have reached this milestone! Our goal is to create a positive home environment for children to laugh, play, and learn of the love of God. Email us or visit our website if you would like more information and please call (205) 924-9751 if you know a child in need of help.