Do You Parent Foster Children Differently?
In some ways…yes.
It really depends upon the condition of the child. Because of things like neglect and abuse, foster children often come with physical, mental, or emotional baggage that requires a special ministry of compassion which simply may not be as necessary for children who have grown up in healthier environments. This ministry of compassion will require an extra measure of things like wisdom and longsuffering.
Though God didn’t create life itself to be complicated, sin and its effects certainly can and do complicate life! When children have been neglected and/or abused in various ways, they often require more focused attention and care. This can be a startling and discouraging discovery for a foster parent, but it need not be. If you take the time to educate yourself on some of the potential pitfalls of foster parenting, you will, no doubt, save yourself a lot of frustration. Talk with other experienced foster parents, and avail yourself of the resources provided at www.biblicalparenting.org. Author and speaker, Dr. Scott Turansky, having raised two adopted daughters of his own, also speaks to this subject.
Another factor that affects how you fulfill your role as a foster parent has to do with understanding authority. Because the state plays a significant role in the welfare of the foster child, you are limited in the area of discipline. For example, in some states, you may not have the same freedom to spank your foster child as you would your own biological child.
In some ways…no.
The reality is that kids, regardless of their circumstance or history, still have the same fundamental need to be loved, trained, and protected as they learn and grow through life. If you are faithful to do these things, you will have a fruitful ministry in the life of a child – one that will be rewarded eternally! Jesus said, “And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me” (Matt. 18:5). NIV
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