Since 1988 our country has come together to appreciate and recognize the strength and courage of foster families by declaring May National Foster Care Month. Right now, foster families are caring for nearly 500,000 American children who are in foster care because their own families are in difficult situations and are unable to provide for them.

I work directly with treatment foster families in the Milwaukee area through Children’s Service Society of Wisconsin, and I know that foster children have an extraordinary capacity to overcome many challenges, but only if they have the support of a caring adult in their lives. Loving foster parents add the stability and structure children need to grow to become successful adults.

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Lately, a day doesn’t go by without hearing some bad news about the economy. As parents, it’s natural that we sometimes may become stressed, depressed or angry. Children often sense this, and can feel stressed and anxious, too. So what can we do for our children during these difficult times? The following tips may be helpful:

Keep the lines of communication open
It’s more important than ever to keep communication open and honest with your children. Kids sense when their parents are worried – and they need to know why. Reassure your children that while circumstances may have changed, they will be safe and OK.

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Starting today, Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin and 96.5 WKLH’s Dave & Carole kick off their annual 96-hour Miracle Marathon. It runs on air through Friday, May 22. Thanks to the commitment of the WKLH team, they have raised more than $11 million for Children’s Hospital since they began the event 11 years ago. Dave and Carole will be broadcasting live from our new west tower lobby – you will hear amazing and inspiring stories from many, many families and, most notably, from our courageous patients, the children we care for each and every day. You also will meet many of our dedicated physicians, nurses and staff

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