When an advocate gets assigned to a new child (or sibling group) who has been removed from home due to abuse or neglect, after reading all the case material, they begin to prepare to meet their child for the first time. They visit their local CASA office in search of a small gift or activity that could help them connect with that child. During the holidays, another gift is also needed. Having a variety of toys and activities to pick from is essential when planning a visit.
A child on the spectrum may find specific manipulative toys comforting such as a breathing ball or fidget spinner. Children of all ages always appreciate coloring materials and assorted coloring books. This also applies to playdough. An adolescent suffering from anxiety may appreciate a special coloring book that has motivational phrases. A teenager may appreciate a body lotion gift set as such luxuries are hardly ever afforded to them. Sitting with a child and coloring or playing with playdough gives our advocates a chance to get to know the child without pressure or awkwardness. Many children appreciate the extra attention while they have the opportunity to feel listened to and celebrated.
After a great start to what will likely be many memories, the advocate goes home and completes a write-up about their visit. While that child was playing, their advocate was noticing their environment, chatting on and off with their placement parent and noting that child’s needs and interests. This will allow the advocate to write a comprehensive report that will be submitted to a family court judge and will ultimately ensure the child’s needs are met while they are living away from home.
Join us as we work hard to help children in Middlesex County. Our volunteer advocates are on the front line helping to ensure that those who need us are not lost. Read on to learn more about our organization and why every child in foster care needs a CASA.
