Leading Foster Care Expert Shares Powerful Stories and Insights with Dr. John DeGarmo

In this insightful episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Courtney and Travis are joined by Dr. John DeGarmo, a renowned foster care expert who has fostered over 60 children and is the director of the Foster Care Institute. Dr. DeGarmo shares his extensive experience in the foster care system, highlighting the challenges and rewards of fostering children, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr. DeGarmo discusses the importance of both recruiting and retaining foster parents, noting that many foster parents leave within 18 months due to the overwhelming demands and lack of support. He emphasizes the need for comprehensive training for foster parents, particularly in handling mental health issues, which have surged among children during the pandemic.

The episode delves into the impact of the lockdowns on foster children, who lost access to essential support services, schooling, and in-person therapy. Dr. DeGarmo explains how these disruptions have exacerbated mental health issues and the importance of addressing these challenges to better support foster children.

Dr. DeGarmo also touches on the significant issue of social media and online safety, highlighting the vulnerability of foster children to online predators and the importance of training foster parents to navigate these dangers. Additionally, he discusses the systemic issues in the foster care system, including the high turnover rate of caseworkers and the need for better support and resources for both foster parents and children.

Throughout the episode, Dr. DeGarmo provides valuable insights and practical advice for fostering, underscoring the importance of community support and the role everyone can play in helping children in crisis.

Takeaways
Recruitment and retention of foster parents are crucial for a successful foster care system.
Foster parents need support services and training on mental health issues for children in foster care.
Unconditional love and support are essential for children in foster care.
Foster parents should prioritize their own well-being and seek support from foster parent support groups.
Involvement of faith-based organizations, businesses, and legislators is important in addressing the challenges faced by foster families.

Sound Bites
"What children in foster care need most is unconditional love."
"I can't change the world, but the child placed in our home, their world has changed."

**Contact Dr. DeGarmo (for speaking and consulting) or access his vast array of resources in all things related to foster care.
https://www.drjohndegarmofostercare.com/

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