Cultivating Identity Formation for Children in Your Care

Written By clepeau .

Becky Schmidgall, Kinship Family Group Facilitator

What is “identity formation?” Sometimes also known as identity development, it is the process individuals go through to develop a clear and unique view of themselves and their place in the world.

Over time, foster-kinship youth develop a sense of identity that includes a sense of self, personality, values, beliefs and goals.

Identity formation is influenced by social and cultural experiences during childhood and adolescence. Aspects of identity formation include sense of self, personality, values, beliefs, goals, and group affiliations. A strong sense of identity is crucial for a person’s well-being, self-esteem, and ability to successfully navigate social interactions. 

One of the challenges our foster kids face is the process of identity formation. Being removed from their birth family can disrupt a child's sense of familial and cultural heritage, potentially leading to a weakened sense of identity. However, kinship caregivers may have slight advantages, as they may share family members or are at least somewhat knowledgeable about the foster child’s family of origin. 

Identity formation is not a one-time event, but rather a continuous process of exploration, reflection, and adaptation throughout life. Caregivers have many opportunities to cultivate and nurture the identity formation of children in your care.

During our March kinship dinner, we took time to discuss how to support the identity formation process for the kids in our care. Our kinship caregivers shared the ways they actively encourage this process and brainstormed ways they can continue to support their children in this process.

Factors that Support Identity Formation: 

  • Nurturing Environment: A supportive and loving foster family can help children develop a sense of belonging and self-worth.

  • Encouraging Exploration: Kinship caregivers can actively encourage children to explore their interests, hobbies, and cultural heritage, fostering a sense of self-discovery. 

  • Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity: Understanding and respecting a child's cultural background is essential for supporting their identity development. 

  • Connecting with Cultural Roots: Providing opportunities for children to connect with their cultural heritage, such as through language, traditions, or community events, can strengthen their sense of identity. 

  • Positive Relationships: Strong relationships with caregivers and peers can help children develop a positive sense of self and build resilience. 

Specific Considerations: 

  • Racial and Ethnic Identity: Foster care can impact the development of racial and ethnic identity, particularly for youth in transracial or transethnic placements. 

  • Cultural Identity: Supporting cultural identity is crucial for children in foster care, as it can provide a sense of belonging, stability, and strength. 

  • Self-Expression: Providing opportunities for children to express themselves through art, music, or other creative outlets can help them explore their identity. 

  • Mental Health: Addressing any mental health concerns or trauma experienced by children in foster care is essential for supporting their overall well-being and identity development. 

Identity formation in foster children is a complex and multifaceted process that requires a supportive and understanding environment. By acknowledging the unique challenges and strengths of these children, kinship caregivers can play a vital role in helping them develop a strong sense of self which will establish the foundation for a positive future. 

If you want to support the identity formation process in your child, we’ve included some reflection questions to get your started.

Reflection Questions for Caregivers:

  • What does it look like, practically, for you to honor your child’s identity?  Are there family traditions, cultural events, music, food, etc that you can incorporate into your regular family rhythms?

  • How can you regularly encourage your child to explore their identity and connect with their heritage?

  • How can you support your child in creating a personal narrative about who they are and how they identify?

  • How can you utilize your unique relationship with your child’s family of origin to help answer questions your child may ask?  What about when you’re unsure of an answer?

  • Meditate on the following:

    • three strengths of your child

    • three interests/hobbies your child enjoys

    • three ways your child is helpful to you or others

    • three ways your child adds value to the world.  

    • How can you nurture these characteristics of your child as they grow?


Helpful Resources for Kinship Caregivers:

  • There are a variety of helpful external links on this page

  • I Am You 360: Tucson nonprofit organization with a program, “Your hair is your crown,” which offers a cultural hair care class (amongst other services).

  • Adoptive mom of children of color; gives lots of tutorials on natural hair care.

  • Good and concise website for foster parents re: black hair care

  • AZ Friend of Foster Children funds ethnic hair care

References:

clepeau .
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