Children often experience an array of emotions and reactions during family visitations that range from fear, apprehension, and anxiety to excitement and joy. These feelings can be displayed in the form of various behaviors before, during, or after the visit takes place. Any behaviors of concern should be discussed with your case manager if they are disruptive to the child (interfering with his or her ability to function) or to the family.

Keep in mind that this may not necessarily be indicative of a need to change the visitation plan. Visits may be difficult for a child, especially given that the child has been removed from his or her home, parents, and, at times, other siblings. Spending time with them and having to say goodbye again can be a traumatic and confusing time for a child. 

• If a child is upset following a family visit, encourage open communication about what he or she is feeling 

• If the child did not want to leave his or her biological family, mark the next visit on the calendar as a way of looking forward to the next visitation date • Most children remain loyal to their families, even in the worst cases of abuse or neglect; never make negative or derogatory comments about his or her family, simply offer a sympathetic ear for whatever feelings he or she chooses to share with you 

• Maintain accurate notes about each visit, including behavioral changes, to share with your case manager so that care plans can be adjusted accordingly to meet the needs of the child going forward 

• As a foster parent, you are welcomed and encouraged to help your foster child maintain family connections. For example, via emails, phone calls, school activities, or other means of communication. Please get prior approval from your child’s case manager for all planned interactions with family or relatives prior to making contact. If there is any unauthorizedcommunication made between the child and any member of his or her birth family, whether positive or negative, it is imperative that you document the contact and inform the child’s case manager in a timelymanner.