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
Chaplain Ted Stackpole serves the foster and adoption community with deep compassion and commitment, drawing from years of experience as a spiritual leader and advocate for vulnerable children and families. He is an ordained minister and an endorsed chaplain with the Assemblies of God, offering guidance, hope, and pastoral care to those navigating the complexities of foster care and adoption. A devoted father of eleven, Ted enjoys spending time in the great outdoors and hopes to one day fulfill his dream of exploring the rugged beauty of Alaska.
Dr. Robert Griffith, D.Min. is a pastor, author, speaker, and advocate for vulnerable children. He serves as Lead Pastor of Trinity Life Center, a multigenerational and multicultural church in Las Vegas, Nevada, and is passionate about equipping churches and leaders to make a lasting impact in their communities. Academically, Dr. Griffith holds degrees in ministry, leadership, and business, bringing a unique blend of theological insight and practical leadership experience to his teaching and ministry. Alongside his wife, Wendy, he is a passionate advocate for foster care, adoption, and orphan care ministry. Their book, Fostering Jesus, shares their personal foster and adoption journey while helping churches engage in caring for vulnerable children and families. Dr. Griffith regularly speaks at conferences, churches, and leadership events, inspiring others to live out the gospel through compassionate action.