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Resources for Churches

The CALL is here to provide your church with the clarity and confidence to step into the mission of Foster Care. On this page, you will find a variety of resources to engage, equip, and encourage your church to serve.

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Loving Children with Challenging Behaviors

Children who have experienced trauma often have over-active nervous systems. Their brains tell their bodies they are in danger, even if no physical harm is present. When their fear/stress response is triggered, it can result in challenging behaviors such as “meltdowns,” lying, physical altercations, or other aggressive behaviors. However, a child who has experienced trauma is likely not “acting out,” but responding to involuntary messages inside their brains. We must treat these instances differently than a typical outburst to reaffirm messages of love and safety.

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De-Escalating Children in Church

Children who have experienced trauma often have over-active nervous systems. Their brains tell their bodies they are in danger, even if no physical harm is present. When their fear/stress response is triggered, it can result in what we have historically called “meltdowns” or “tantrums.” However, a child who has experienced trauma is likely not “acting out,” but responding to involuntary messages inside their brains. We must treat these instances differently than a typical outburst to teach the child that they are safe. Download
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De-Escalation Poster

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De-Escalating Altercations

Brains reacting in a stress response (fight, flight, freeze or flock), can only process a few words. This is not the time to rationalize with them.

The initial goal is to de-escalate the violent activity - resolution and consequences come after

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Dealing with Lying

Exploring the truth is a normal part of development

When development is disrupted by trauma, this can continue and turn into frequent lying.

Why children lie:
  • to fit in
  • they are scared
  • they don’t have impulse control or plan what they are going to say/how they will respond
  • fear of being punished for telling the truth to get what they need
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Helping Kids with ADHD

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

One of the most common mental health issues impacting youth

Three "symptoms"
  • Inattention
  • Hyperactivity
  • Impulsivity

Diagnosis must be done by a professional. Just because a child may be high energy does not automatically mean they have ADHD

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Care Teams

Care Teams exhibit the love of our church family to children experiencing foster care by creating relationships and support. This is a beautiful opportunity to display the gospel!

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Family Support Calendar Template

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