Children who have experienced trauma have often experienced highly unpredictable care. A caregiver may have been kind and gentle one day and volatile the next, particularly in cases where substance abuse or mental illness were involved. Erratic behavior from a caregiver, and the constant moving from home to home, results in children who do not trust others, who choose to rely on themselves, and who seek to maintain control in all circumstances. Well-equipped foster families help children heal by providing a routine and consistent home life that gives them stability.
As parents seek to connect with a child’s heart and demonstrate with words and body language that the child is a precious, beloved gift from God, nurturing occurs. When a child feels loved, seen and valued in your presence — regardless of the challenges you face together — a child can learn to trust you and bond appropriately. In the context of this safe and loving relationship, a child can begin to process their trauma and learn socially appropriate ways to interact with others and get their needs met.
