View Post

What is Self-Regulation? (And Why Can’t My Kids Do it?)

In All Kids Always, Life Skills by Thom Van DyckeLeave a Comment

Teachers and therapists talk a lot about what they call self-regulation. And foster parents, in particular, hear about it a lot, too. But understanding self-regulation is critical for all parents, teachers, kid’s leaders, and, well, people. Here’s why. Understanding self-regulation will help you understand your kids and how to meet their needs, and even help understand yourself and why you …

View Post

Compassion For Every Parent

In All Kids Always, Foster Care by Thom Van DyckeLeave a Comment

Most work in child welfare involves some level of heartbreak; which is really tough. But it also involves the chance to grow in compassion; which is great! In the past, I have said that as soon as Child and Family Services is involved, we are trying to fit bandages on top of bandages. In other words, something is broken. And …

View Post

Getting Your [Foster] Kids COVID-Ready for School

In All Kids Always, School by Thom Van Dycke2 Comments

I just wrote a blog for www.mysteinbach.ca about getting your kids COVID ready for school. You can read here. In addition to those suggestions, our foster kids need a bit of extra help. Here are three more suggestions to keep in mind when you are getting a child from a hard place ready for school this year. They Need Additional …

View Post

Four Simple Tools That Changed Our Lives As Foster Parents

In All Kids Always, Trust-Based Relational Intervention by Thom Van Dycke6 Comments

I’m a bit embarrassed to admit it, but at one point we were giving 20 minute time-outs to a three-year-old… in a room by himself. (It was a playroom with a window in the door so he wan’t unsupervised!) This was before we learned about Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) and how simple practices would greatly reduce our frustration as parents. …