Placement

The amount of time you wait for the first child to be placed depends on the number of area children  needing placement. The age range, gender, and characteristics of the children you have been approved. to care for will also effect the amount of time you wait for your first placement.

If circumstances allow, the placement is planned and you will receive notice that the child is coming and when to expect the child. In most instances, particularly after working hours, a child may be placed with little notice. Whether the placement is planned or an emergency  the child’s case manager should share all known, applicable information regarding the child and his/her situation.

Since children may come into placement with few or no belongings, it is a good idea for Partnership Parents to have a stock of generic items on hand. Suggested items include:

Toothbrushes/deodorant

Hair care products (ribbons, combs, brushes)

Diapers/underwear

Night-lights

Sleeping outfits

Toys

Kid friendly snacks and meal plan

First Day of Placement

When the child is initially placed in your home, he will not become comfortable with you and his new surroundings immediately; even infants may experience a period of adjustment when placed in an unfamiliar environment. A child’s reaction to placement depends largely upon his past experiences. .

When a child is initially placed into your home:

• Be patient; don’t expect miracles.

• The child is trying to make sense of new people, new surroundings, and behaviors that are different from what he knows. 

• No matter how terrible the previous situation was, the child will probably display some sadness and anxiety due to his loss.

• The child may be unclean or poorly dressed with little, if any, clothing,  No matter what the child’s condition, do not discard his clothing and other personal possessions. They may have special meaning to the child.

• The child may blame himself for what has happened. Assure him this is not the case.

• The child may be withdrawn, tearful, anxious, angry or overly active and playful. With some children, there will be no obvious effects of the placement.

• No matter what the child’s behavior or disposition, it is important that you and your family show acceptance, warmth, and most of all understanding during this very difficult time for the child. The child’s Case Manager will share additional adjustment pointers with you as each child differs in his response to placement.