Taken into foster care, through the eyes of a child

Summary

Michelle Voorhees describes being removed from her home and moved between foster placements as confusing and traumatic. Children are separated from familiar people, routines, and surroundings, often without understanding what will happen next. Repeated moves can undermine their sense of safety and make it harder to trust others, form relationships, or focus on long-term goals.

She says behaviors that may follow—such as running away, fighting, or using drugs—can be instinctive responses to fear and distress, rather than planned choices. Children need support to cope with the emotions behind those actions.

Voorhees also argues that more resources should go toward keeping families together. In her view, her mother was a caring parent who faced serious hardships without enough help, and practical support might have prevented the family’s separation.

Presenters and contributors

• Speaker: Michelle Voorhees
• Video: Shelly Yang and Neil Nakahodo