Welcome! In this section you will find videos and activities designed for foster youth and kids.
Explore each section to hear from other foster youth, mentors, and professionals on topics like finding your voice and communicating your needs, settling in to new surroundings, and managing tough emotions and stressful situations.
We're glad you're here!
Todos los videos incluyen subtítulos en español. Si no se muestran automáticamente, simplemente presione el botón [CC] en la sección de controles abajo del video y seleccione español.
What helped me most
What helped us through the hardest times
Find solutions to challenges you face by enlisting help from those around you.
When I first went into foster care I was petrified
When you enter a new home effective communication can help you adjust.
Feeling good about yourself
Know that you are strong and special, ignore negative comments.
Messages of hope
What are your proudest moments
Reach out to those around you for support, you might be surprised by how many people care about you.
There are people who want to help but you need to reach out to them.
You are capable of great things, don’t be afraid to reach out for support when you need it!
Supportive message to foster youth
You are important and you have a bright future.
Dreaming is important - you can make them happen
Turn your dreams into specific goals to make them more achieveable
You will have a good life
Believe in your own strengths and you can achieve any goal you set.
I believe in you
With the right strategies you can achieve anything
If your foster home is bad
Communicate concerns you have with others who are here to help you.
Managing difficulties
Moving is very hard, I learned to take it slowly
Planning for big transitions does not have to be scary, there are strategies to help.
Advice from a foster youth who has had difficult experiences
Identifying a support system can help you through even the roughest times.
Moving to a different area
Adjusting to a new place can be tough, Maria shares a few tips on how she managed a move to a new part of town.
Feeling ashamed of being a foster child
Overcome negative feelings with strategies that can help you cope.
One day I decided to stop crying and do something about it
Find strategies that help you feel in control of your reactions to stressful situations.
Helpful information
Strengths I developed from being a foster youth
Learning new skills can help you build on your current strengths and achieve your goals.
Legal options for older, non-adopted youth
Navigating the child welfare system can be challenging, remember to take time to relax and consider all of your options.
Advice from foster youth
My story: Some very bad times with a happy ending
It can be hard to move on from challenges, you may have faced early in life, but there are strategies that can help.
You have to be your own voice
Do not be afraid to speak up and ask for the support you need.
Advocate for yourself and take charge
Asking questions and communicating clearly can help you feel more in control of your situation.
Foster care made me hateful, but hate comes at a cost
Going through difficult or challenging times in the past can have an effect on how you might act or behave today.
Court was very intimidating but don't let that get to you
Navigating the court system can be challenging. Keep in mind that your needs and opinions are important, share them!