April is Childhood Abuse Prevention Month.

With that in mind, we thought it’s important to remind those with foster youth in their care about what to do if they suspect they have suffered abuse or if they disclose they’ve been abused. 

If you suspect a youth in your care has been abused, do not bring it up. Instead, immediately contact your care team and explain your concerns. 

Similarly, if a youth in your care discloses they have been abused, focus on listening rather than reacting. Do not ask too many questions. Immediately contact your care team and relay to them what you’ve been told. It’s important you act fast, since quick acknowledgement of the abuse is one of the key factors in fostering resilience in abused youth.  

Past that, there are some things you can do in your home that will help the youth in your care build resilience—and it starts with you. The presence of a stable adult is one of the first pillars of building resilience in abused kids and teens. By consistently providing support, understanding, and guidance, you can create an environment that fosters growth and strength in the children and teens in your care. 

Building routines is another important aspect of building resilience in abused youth. For example, keep meals to the same time every day. Set aside 20 minutes every day for reading or structured play and make sure there’s time every day dedicated to studies.

It’s also crucial you build the confidence of the kids and teens in your care. Research shows one of the best ways to do this is through praise. Consistently remind the youth in your life that they’re doing a great job. Recognize their achievements. Even better, write them letters so they have something to look back on and remember during tough times to remind themselves of their strengths and progress. This tangible reminder can help them stay motivated and resilient, especially when faced with challenges. By reinforcing their positive qualities and efforts, you create a foundation of self-worth that supports their growth and development. 

Research has also shown that altruism builds resilience. Arranging some ways for the youth in your care to give back can be a great way to help them overcome the obstacles in their own lives. Help them volunteer at a local soup kitchen, assist at an animal shelter, or participate in a local park cleanup.  

As we recognize Childhood Abuse Prevention Month, it’s important to remember that the impact of abuse doesn’t have to define a child’s future. By taking immediate action when abuse is suspected or disclosed, and by creating a stable, supportive environment at home, you can play a crucial role in helping youth heal and grow. Through consistency, praise, and opportunities to give back, you empower the children and teens in your care to build resilience and develop into strong, capable individuals. Your involvement, care, and commitment to their well-being can make all the difference in their journey toward healing and a brighter future.