Discover the truth behind fostering during the holidays, as we debunk common myths and reveal the rewarding realities for both children and foster families.
Many assume the challenges of the season make fostering unmanageable, but thoughtful support and planning can transform the holidays into a positive experience for everyone involved.
The truth is, with creativity and flexibility, foster families can ensure children feel valued and included—often introducing new traditions and lasting memories. Learn more about creating traditions here.
Families are encouraged to blend their customs with those meaningful to the children in their care, creating an environment where everyone’s traditions are respected and celebrated. Rather than sidelining their own celebrations, foster families have the opportunity to share their cherished rituals while also inviting children to introduce special customs from their own backgrounds. This collaborative approach enriches the holiday season, making it a time of discovery, connection, and mutual appreciation for new and familiar traditions alike.
While the season brings change, it also offers opportunities for connection, healing, and shared joy, making fostering during the holidays incredibly meaningful. A welcoming loving home can provide immense healing and joy for a child in care.
Programs like Mentor Foster Care provide ongoing assistance, resources, and a supportive community, helping families navigate holiday challenges and celebrate the season together.
Our PA program hosting an event to celebrate families in their area.
While it’s true that holidays can be a sensitive time for children separated from their families, it’s also a period ripe with opportunities for positive memories and emotional growth. For many, being welcomed into a loving foster home during this season offers stability and hope when it’s needed most.
Therapeutic foster care, in particular, is built around understanding trauma and meeting children where they are emotionally. Foster families are supported by experienced teams, helping them create nurturing environments, even during emotionally charged times like the holidays.
Building new holiday traditions is a powerful way to help children feel included and valued. Small gestures—like baking cookies together, creating homemade decorations, or sharing favorite stories—can become cherished rituals for everyone.
Foster families are encouraged to honor both their own traditions and those that are meaningful to the children in their care. This blending of customs can foster a sense of belonging, making the holidays a time to create joyful, lasting memories together.
No foster family should feel alone—especially during the holidays. Sevita’s Mentor Foster Care program provides ongoing support, trauma-informed counseling, and access to resources to help families navigate seasonal challenges and celebrate successes.
In addition to clinical support, there are workshops, peer groups, and community events designed to keep families connected and uplifted. These resources ensure foster parents have the tools they need to create positive holiday experiences, regardless of the challenges that may arise.
Communities play a vital role in supporting foster families during the holidays. By volunteering, donating, or simply offering encouragement, neighbors can help create a welcoming environment for all.
Embracing the realities—and joys—of holiday fostering helps break down barriers and dispel myths. When communities come together, they empower foster families and children to make the most of the season, transforming the holidays into a time of hope, healing, and belonging.