Here is a great tip for new foster parents, courtesy of research done by the University of Boston (click here for the entire article):

When foster parents say, “This is our house; this is your room,” to a foster child, they’re relaying an important message: “You are part of this family – the whole family,” and that’s a strong statement, says to Annette Semanchin Jones, an assistant professor in the UB School of Social Work.

Researchers refer to this as “claiming language” and its consistent use by foster parents plays a critical role when foster children are adapting to new homes. (Read more…)