News
Extracurricular activities for foster children: A change in the regulations
By: Lois Rutten, Division Manager
Assembly Bill (AB 408) is a new law that entitles foster children to participate in age-appropriate extracurricular enrichment and social activities. It also states caregivers shall use a “reasonable and prudent parent standard” in determining whether to give permission for a child residing in foster care to participate in these activities. So what does this all really mean? As a mother of two teenage girls, I would like to think that it means both common sense and parental responsibility. Most parents want to see their children get involved in some sort of extracurricular activity such as sports, dance lessons, music lessons – the list is endless.
Extracurricular activities help children develop their full potential, relate to other with increasing understanding, learn to respect others, and to develop values to guide their actions. But it all has to be balanced ton ensure the child is not spread too thin. Here is where being a “prudent parent” steps in.
It may be a good idea to sit down and take a look at exactly what your foster child is doing and how much time he or she spends doing it. Review your child’s daily schedule. For example, dinner, doing homework, playing with friends, watching television, time spent on the computer. Are you surprised? Concerned? Where does family time fit in? Families need time to interact, to converse and communication, to strengthen the bonds of trust, to work together and play together. If this time is not available because your child is too busy, their activity list may need some revision.
We all know that foster children want what every child wants – to belong, to be part of a group, “fit in with their peers,” be part of a family. As a “prudent parent,” it is your responsibility to help them be realistic and balance their time and commitments. If you child is not doing well in school, their grades are suffering, and he/she is actively involved in extracurricular activities, then make no qualms about it. More time needs to be spent on schoolwork and family than partaking in other activities.
But as a “prudent parent,” I keep the lines of communication open to ensure my daughters are doing what they like for themselves and not for me. We talk together about making responsible choices, keeping their grades up and not over-extending ourselves.
I think of this as common sense and solid parenting. Hand in hand, our children can benefit from extracurricular activities and our role is to help them become the best they can be.
You’ll be amazed at how much you enjoy watching them perform!
From Contra Costa County Foster Families Newsletter, May/June 2006