Child Appreciation Days enable adopters or foster carers to meet with significant people from a child’s past. They provide a unique way of gaining an understanding of the child’s view of the world, how their past experiences have affected their current behaviour, and the potential impact of a new placement or other transition on all concerned.

This Good Practice Guide provides authoritative, practical information on the benefits of Child Appreciation Days for all concerned. It outlines how best to organise these events, and how to run them before, during and after the event. A range of useful templates and forms are also included.

With an increasing number of agencies recognising the benefits of Child Appreciation Days and adding them to their practice, or expanding their use of them, the practical information contained in this guide will be of great help.

Who is this book for?

This guide is ideal for all those who are, or who may be, involved in planning, organising or running Child Appreciation Days.

What you will find in this book

This Good Practice Guide includes information on:

• The history and development of Child Appreciation Days
• What a Child Appreciation Day can offer to all parties involved
• How to organise and prepare a Child Appreciation Day
• How to run a Child Appreciation Day, including before, during and after the event

A range of useful tools for workers organising these events is also provided, including template letters, forms and information to be sent to attendees.

Read the contents page and introduction

Andy Sayers:
Andy Sayers has been in social work for over 25 years, mostly specialising in adoption and fostering. He has trained on and facilitated Child Appreciation Days around England.

Roana Roach:
Roana Roach was a qualified youth and community worker and social worker. Formerly CoramBAAF’s training manager, she promoted, trained on and facilitated Child Appreciation Days around England.