Out of all of life’s stumbeling blocks, Where does Achievement fall for a Foster Child Shelena Tate, Founder of TFOM
TFOM (The Fisher Of Men)
TFOM (currently in development) is a one-stop achievement outlet for Foster Care Youth ages 8-18.
The goal of TFOM is to counter the traditional remeial solutions of isolation and medication with achivement driven alernatives.
Concentrations will be in the areas of
Academic Achievement
Creative Arts
Performing Arts
Life Skills Intensives
Day 1 Challenge
Day 1: Everyone at some point has heard about, know someone, or has expierence with Foster Care. Often this is a touchy subject that many people like to forget or brush to the side. However, what I’ve found as a now published author is writing is a form of healing. No, I’m not suggesting that you need therapy or something is wrong. I’m expressing how writting has helped me to become free…..and maybe it can help you!
As part of this Day 1 challenge, I’d like to talk to you and converse on you experience dealing with Foster Care. For now I’d like to know
How did you enter into the system?
Do you know someone in the system?
How does this knowledge make you feel?
You don’t have to answer all 3, only what is relevant to you. Once again this is just a day 1 Ice Breaker you don’t have to share or get graphic about anything painful. This is just an outlet to assist in writing as a form of personal healing. Who knows maybe one day your testimony will also help others……
Let’s build something together.
Stay Connected: TFOM2019@yahoo.com
THANKSGIVING 365
So the Holidays, (especially Thanksgiving & Christmas) can feel like an awkward time for a Foster Child or Adopted Youth….well if that child was recently removed and of age to comprehend. The youth may feel out of place during a time where they should feel loved and appreciated…
Therefore i’d like to take the time to encourage new Foster or Adoptive Parents….. Talk to your Foster/Adopted Youth. …. Engage them beyond tell us what happened to you or buying their affection. Many of the placed or adopted youth need time to adjust and not feel even more like an “outsider”. Often in a Foster or Adoptive home the youth knows they don’t belong and that everyone seems (extra) during the Holidays….
Meaning, Foster & Adoptive Parents….don’t show off your new family member(s) like a new “car”. It is awkward and uncomfortable especially for many individuals coming from homes with multiple siblings or tramadic experiences. Love on them…in bits meaning don’t make the community feel as if you deserve a blue ribbon for charity….. As you can hear I’ve had experience with this.
Find out what types of foods, toys, games, and outings your child likes. And always introduce them as your son/daughter with their permission….that often has to be earned depending on age. Don’t make them feel valued only in the public eye or during the Holidays to make an impression on friends and family….. this is a real life with real needs, emotions, and wounds…..
Finally, just because your new child doesn’t talk or open up right away doesn’t always mean they need Therapy or Medication….. Often in bits the child will open up…. but it will be at moments they are comfortable, unforced, and feel wanted. This Hoilday Season if your family has decided to extend your family through Foster Care or Adoption….consider making that life a healing adventure going into 2021 and beyond….
Let your youth know they are not an extension just to bring funds into your home, for you to get a charity award (unless you are actually making a real difference), the kind thing to do because it’s the Holidays…..and I could go on….. Your empathy, encouragement, and positive engagement will make a world of difference to a Foster or Adoptive Youth who needs the understanding that this Holiday wasn’t only a dream!
Blog Spot Connect 