Two Down, Two to Go!

We have successfully survived the second day of PRIDE training (concluding a little early even this last Saturday!). My mom, Patrick's mom and Patrick's sister joined us for their required attendance to help us with babysitting needs. It was an interesting class for sure. We had a new instructor join us and spent a good portion of the morning sharing stories about her personal experiences as a Foster Mom. She certainly has a good idea of what it takes to care for these children. She is in the process of adopting her current foster child. She is two now and "Mama Tricia" got her when she was eight months old.

In between classes this last week, we went and had our fingerprints done ($88.40 later!) and we also worked on our homework for the next class. Patrick made some oreo balls and sausage balls for us to take to class with us as our contribution to lunch - we decided as a class on a pot luck style lunch that would allow us to continue to work through while we ate. It really worked out very well!

We spent the entire day on the 19th going over the difference between discipline and punishment and the punishment restrictions CPS has for foster parents. Of course, we are not allowed to spank our foster children. We can't restrain them in any way (unless they are posing specific harm to themselves or others) and we can't lock them in their room. The things these children have already been through to get to this place would really dictate that this is common sense. It appeared that our fellow classmates agreed. We were given some appropriate forms of punshiment for breaking rules, etc. Of course, each child is different and will require a different approach. It is very interesting to me how the state determines what the "best practices" should be. I don't agree with all of them, but of course, we must follow them.

We are looking forward to next weekend and hope to continue to learn more and more about this process.

Thanks again fo your continued love, prayers and support.