An experienced foster parent shares authentic, practical advice they wish they'd known when starting their foster care journey. The video captures their genuine reflection on lessons learned, creating an encouraging and relatable message for prospective and new foster families.
Your task: Film this video following the concept and script below, then upload to SharePoint.
Film vertically (phone upright) for best results. Aim for 30-60 seconds.
Film vertically (phone upright) for best results. Aim for 30-60 seconds.
🎬 Video Concept
An experienced foster parent shares authentic, practical advice they wish they'd known when starting their foster care journey. The video captures their genuine reflection on lessons learned, creating an encouraging and relatable message for prospective and new foster families.
📝 Script / Talking Points
FOSTER PARENT (looking directly at camera, warm smile): "When I first became a foster parent, I thought love would be enough. And don't get me wrong—love is huge. But I quickly learned there was so much more to it."
(Pause, more serious but still warm)
"I wish someone had told me that kids need routine and structure to feel safe, even more than I realized. That it's okay to have bad days—both for you and the kids. That building trust takes time, and that's completely normal."
(Leaning in slightly, encouraging tone)
"Most importantly? You don't have to figure it all out alone. The BFS team, other foster families, your support network—we're all here for you. Every question you have, every challenge you face, someone else has been there too."
(Genuine smile)
"If you're thinking about foster care or just getting started, know that you've got this. And you've got us. What questions do you have? We'd love to help."
TEXT OVERLAY: "You don't have to do this alone"
💡 Tip: Don't read word-for-word. Use these as talking points and speak naturally!
🎥 Shot Breakdown
- Close-up: Foster parent sitting comfortably in home setting, speaking directly to camera
- Medium shot: Same foster parent, showing more of cozy living room background
- Close-up: Foster parent leaning in slightly during the encouraging portion
- Medium shot: Foster parent's final message with warm, welcoming expression
- End slate: BFS logo with 'Ready to learn more? Contact us today'
👥 Required Participants
One experienced foster parent (someone comfortable speaking on camera and willing to share their authentic experience)
📱 Technical Requirements
📐
Orientation: Vertical (9:16) - phone held upright
⏱️
Duration: 30-60 seconds (ideal)
🎬
Format: MP4 or MOV
🎯 Target Platforms
View Social Media Captions (for reference)
📘 Facebook Caption
"When I first became a foster parent, I thought love would be enough. But I quickly learned that creating structure and routine was just as important for helping kids feel safe and secure. Here's what I wish someone had told me from day one." ❤️
Every foster parent's journey is unique, but we all share common challenges and victories. Today, we're sharing real wisdom from real foster families in our community.
If you're considering foster care or just started your journey, know that you're not alone. Our team is here to support you every step of the way.
What's one piece of advice you'd give to new foster parents? Share in the comments below! 👇
📷 Instagram Caption
"I wish someone had told me this when I first became a foster parent..." 💙
Real advice from real foster families in our community. Every journey is different, but we all learn from each other.
Thinking about foster care? You don't have to do it alone. Our team supports families every step of the way.
What would you add to this advice? Drop it in the comments! 👇
#FosterCare #FosterParent #RealTalk #ParentingTips #Community #Support #FamilyFirst #MakeADifference #FosterFamily #Parenting #ChildWelfare #StrongFamilies
🎵 TikTok Caption
Foster parent real talk: what I wish I knew from day one 💙 #fostercare #parenting #realtalk #community
▶️ YouTube Shorts Caption
"When I first became a foster parent, I thought love would be enough..."
In this video, experienced foster parents from our BFS community share the real advice they wish they'd received when starting their foster care journey. From creating routines to building trust, these authentic insights come straight from families who've walked this path.
Foster care can feel overwhelming, but you're never alone in this journey. At Benchmark Family Services, we support foster families across Indiana, Kentucky, and Pennsylvania with training, resources, and ongoing guidance.
Whether you're considering foster care, just getting started, or looking for encouragement along the way, this honest conversation offers practical wisdom from people who truly understand.
Ready to learn more about becoming a foster family? Visit our website or contact your local BFS office today.
✅ Pre-Filming Checklist
- I understand the video concept
- I've reviewed the script/talking points
- Required participants are available
- I have a quiet, well-lit location
- My phone is charged and ready
📁 When You're Done Filming
Name your file using this format before uploading:
YourOfficeName_General.mp4
Replace "YourOfficeName" with your office's city name (e.g., Indianapolis, Louisville, Erie)