Course Description

This class is designed to help parents navigate the complexities of fostering while ensuring the well-being of their biological children. We will explore the emotional and psychological impact on biological children when their family decides to foster and provide practical strategies to support them during this significant transition.

Finally, we’ll discuss the potential long-term benefits for biological children who grow up in a foster family, such as increased empathy, resilience, and a broader worldview.

By the end of the class, parents will have a deeper understanding of how to support their biological children during the fostering journey while fostering a positive and inclusive family environment.

Key Topics Include

• Emotional Reactions of Biological Children  
• Preparing for a Foster Child’s Arrival  
• Fostering Understanding and Empathy  
• Balancing Attention and Preventing Overshadowing  
• Roles and Responsibilities  
• Handling Conflicts and Jealousy  
• Recognizing Signs of Struggle 
• The Importance of Open Communication  
• Balancing the Needs of All Children  
• Long-term Benefits for Biological Children  

CEU CERTIFICATE: 1 Hour

Course Instructors

Ted Stackpole Facilitator

PROFESSION: Chaplain to the foster and adoption community. CREDENTIALS: Ordained minister and endorsed chaplain through the Assemblies of God. PERSONAL: Has eleven children, loves the outdoors, and would like to see Alaska one day.

Bob Griffith Trainer

PROFESSION: Dr. Bob Griffith D, Min. serves as the lead pastor of Christ Chapel, a multigenerational and multicultural church in the Washington, DC suburbs of Northern Virginia. EDUCATION: Academically, Dr. Griffith holds degrees in ministry, leadership, and business. PERSONAL: Bob and his wife Wendy have written a great book for individuals and churches in which they share their personal foster and adoption story and how the church makes the difference. https://www.fosteringjesus.com