“Special population” is a term generally used to refer to a disadvantaged group. People with disabilities, economically disadvantaged families, and children in foster care are often considered to be special populations.
So if you’re a foster parent, you already parent children who are part of a “special population.” But there are also special populations within foster care, such as children who identify as LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or questioning/queer), those whose parents are in prison, and those who have conditions such as fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD).
If you’re not prepared for it, caring for a child who’s in a special population can be confusing and challenging.
Thank goodness resource parents don’t shy away from a challenge! Nor do they pass up a chance to learn something helpful or put another tool in their parenting tool box. In recognition of this fact, this issue of Fostering Perspectives explores ideas and strategies for understanding and parenting children who belong to special populations.
We hope you find it helpful!
