Up to 1,700 children and teenagers are in foster care in the USA on a typical day. Many of these kids are from backgrounds that are culturally and linguistically diverse.
Children in foster care from diverse cultural or linguistic origins may have come from refugee or asylum-seeking backgrounds, speak English as a second language, or practice a different religion. Foster parents must therefore be able to support and encourage the cultural integration of the children in their care.
One of the most culturally varied communities in both the USA and the world may be established in the 2000s. The following statistics will help you to understand the diversity of culture among different communities:
- In more than 200 countries, 28.4% of people were born abroad.
- 1% of people were born abroad or within the country with at least one parent who was born abroad.
- 26% of home speakers of languages other than English.
- Of the more than 130 distinct religions, 59% practiced them.
Why is it crucial?
Children in foster care who are encouraged to stay connected to their culture, religion, and language are better equipped to build a sense of identity and belonging as they grow up.
Children who are supported in maintaining their cultural identity are more likely to successfully reintegrate into their natal family and neighborhood.
For instance, Alex was of Greek descent and had been in foster care at one point. His foster parents were determined to help him celebrate his culture at home and in his community even if they did not identify as Greek. His caregivers incorporated other family customs including Greek orthodox Easter celebrations into their home. They organized a visit for Alek and his grandparents to observe Greek Easter after receiving permission from the foster care organization. Alek was encouraged to participate in a weekly orthodox Greek youth group so he could meet role models and other youngsters his age in his neighborhood.
Nabila was raised in foster care and self-identified as a Muslim. She was assigned to foster parents who shared her religious identity and were a fantastic match. Nabila’s foster parents were able to support her in keeping the fast throughout Ramadan, and they also helped her enroll in an Islamic school close to their house so she could maintain her cultural ties throughout all aspects of care.
How can foster parents help kids, teens, and families from various cultural backgrounds?
There are numerous ways to offer assistance, including:
- Being hospitable, approachable, and willing to pick up new customs and ways of life
- Spending time learning about their history and culture
- Participating in local multicultural gatherings and events
- Providing a setting where the child or young person can speak freely about their experiences.
- Bringing a child or young person into your home to share and include their cultural or family traditions, such as through cuisine, music, or entertainment
- Identifying a variety of methods to engage with culture, whether through activities at home, in the classroom, or the community.
- Seeking assistance and support from your organization – you are never alone in your efforts to support a child or young person to feel comfortable in their culture while they are in your care.
Are you considering becoming a foster parent?
VQ Foster Care invites caregivers from all backgrounds, especially those with a variety of cultures and languages. The support of varied caregivers who can make sure their experience in care is friendly, inclusive, and culturally appropriate is beneficial for children and young people in foster care.
