In this episode of Fostering Conversations, we welcome Laura, the force behind the popular Instagram account @FosterParenting! Laura shares her journey into foster care, from a spark of interest as a teenager to becoming a foster parent and content creator. We discuss the realities of foster parenting, the importance of trauma-informed care, and the many ways people can support the foster care system—even if they’re not ready to foster themselves.

This episode is also a bittersweet one, as we say farewell (but not goodbye!) to our longtime co-host Liz Rivera. She reflects on her time with the podcast and the exciting direction Fostering Conversations is heading with Amy at the helm.

• How Laura got started in foster care and why she began creating content
• Common misconceptions about fostering and why awareness matter
• The decline in foster parents nationwide—and what we can do about it
• Different ways to get involved beyond fostering (respite care, mentoring, CASA, etc.)
• Trauma-informed parenting tips and the best resources for foster families
• The power of community and why support groups are essential

A-Z of Therapeutic Parenting by Sarah Naish Foster Parent College ([check with your agency for coverage]) Utah Foster Care

If you loved this episode, be sure to follow Laura on Instagram at @FosterParenting for more insights and real-life experiences from the foster care world.

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Guest Bio:

Laura is a social media creator and advocate who draws from her experiences as a therapeutic foster parent. She supports and empowers new foster parents as they navigate getting licensed and being new foster parents. Through her videos, she provides practical advice, consideration about trauma-informed care, and relatable stories to help others navigate the complexities of foster care. Laura’s mission is to raise awareness, advocate for children in care, and inspire foster parents to feel confident and prepared in their journey. Links: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@foster.parenting Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foster.parenting/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fosterparenting Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Foster.Parent.Partner Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/Fosterparenting Download Transcript