Parenting & Childcare Blog

Go Purple at Home: Fun & Meaningful Ways to Teach Kids About Foster Care

May is Foster Care Awareness Month, and Together for Youth invites families to “Go Purple” to support the 17,000 children in foster care across New York State. You can participate right from your home by engaging your children in fun, age-appropriate activities that build empathy and understanding.

Why Talk to Kids About Foster Care?

Educating children about foster care fosters compassion, resilience, and social awareness. It helps them appreciate diverse family experiences and understand the importance of community support. These conversations can also inspire them to become advocates for positive change.​

Creative Ways to Go Purple at Home

1. Purple-Themed Crafts

  • DIY Purple Bracelets or Ribbons: Create and wear them to show support.
  • Decorate with Purple: Adorn your home with purple artwork or decorations.

2. Storytime and Discussions

  • Read Books: Choose age-appropriate books that discuss foster care or themes of family and belonging.
  • Open Conversations: Discuss the stories and encourage questions to deepen understanding.​

3. Family Pledge

  • Make a Commitment: As a family, pledge to support foster care awareness.
  • Share Your Pledge: Display it at home and share on social media to inspire others.​
Two people smiling and standing side by side, each wearing a purple "together for youth" t-shirt. One has an arm around the other's shoulder. They are outside near a building with large windows.
A group of eight women wearing purple shirts, posing in front of "frosty joe's" ice cream stand on a sunny day.
A group of seven women posing outdoors in front of a building with purple ribbons and a logo on the door. they wear various shades of purple clothing, smiling at the camera.
Five women in matching purple tie-dye shirts stand on a porch, holding a sign that reads "we want you to know we appreciate you #bekind" surrounded by purple balloons.
A suburban house at night illuminated with purple lights, featuring a lit-up jack-o'-lantern decoration in the upper window.

4. Social Media Engagement

  • Share Your Activities: Post photos of your purple-themed activities.
  • Use Hashtags: Tag @togetherforyouthny and use #GoPurpleForKidsInFosterCare to join the community.​

The Impact of Early Education

Introducing children to the concept of foster care in a positive and engaging way lays the foundation for lifelong empathy and social responsibility. It encourages them to value diversity and understand the importance of supporting others in their community.

Ready to Go Purple?

Join Together for Youth’s Go Purple campaign by pledging your support. Whether you’re an individual, family, or organization, your participation makes a difference. Visit Together for Youth’s Go Purple page to learn more and make your pledge.​

Let’s come together to support children in foster care and inspire the next generation to do the same.

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