Books to Guide & Inspire Foster Families
Every foster families’ story is different; however, there are a number of situations — both positive and disappointing — that they are familiar with. To better understand and respond to various situation, many foster parents turn to available support, from social workers to therapists, and even books.
We’re helping foster families expand their resource list. Check out our book list with useful stories and insights about different aspects of the foster care and the adoptive journey:
Maybe Days: A Book for Children in Foster Care
“Will I live with my parents again? Will I stay with my foster parents forever?” For children in foster care, the answer to many questions is often "maybe." Maybe Days addresses the questions, feelings, and concerns these children most often face.
All Kinds of Families
This children's book celebrates diverse family structures through rhythmic, humorous text and illustrations of silly animal families. It highlights various setups—two dads, single parents, grandparents, or adopted children—emphasizing that love makes a family, regardless of size or makeup.
Invisible String
The core message of this book is that an invisible thread of love connects people, even when apart, offering comfort and reassurance that they’re never truly alone. It explores separation, loss, and connection in a creative way that helps children understand their feelings and fosters belonging despite distance.
Who Takes Care of You
Childcare looks different from family to family. Whether there’s one caregiver, or two, or four—whether it’s a mommy, a grandpa, or a sitter—the most important thing for a child to know is that they are loved. This sweet board book highlights different kinds of caregivers, as well as the diversity among them.
The Family Book
Although not specifically for children in foster care, this book is a valuable resource because it celebrates family diversity and teaches that love is what matters most. Its positive, colorful portrayal of families—like those with two moms, two dads, or single parents—can help foster children understand and embrace their own situations.
Safe and Loved: A Foster Parent and Social Worker’s Story
This book comforts toddlers and preschoolers in foster care by reassuring them they are safe and loved. As a foster parent to ten and a social worker, Somers brings authenticity and insight into children’s emotional needs and system challenges.
The Whole-Brain Child: 12 Revolutionary Strategies to Nurture Your Child’s Developing Mind
Highlights include brain hemisphere integration, using connection and redirection for development, mindfulness for emotional regulation, and applying CBT with your child.
The Connected Child: Bring Hope and Healing to Your Adoptive Family
This book offers TBRI-based, trauma-informed strategies to help parents build trust, emotional safety, and connection while supporting fear reduction, gentle authority, sensory needs, and social skills.
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