[chevyjewel]

We keep it super simple when explaining it to our kids or other kids of other ages in our family if they're confused. My family usually appreciates that I don't go into the dirty details of drugs, abuse, neglect etc.

What we say usually goes something like this:

sometimes moms and dads get sick, and sometimes they have a tough time dealing with some things or can't take care of their kids right now. It's not that they don't love their kids, because they do, and they miss 'em too but some need extra help for awhile. Those moms and dads sometimes aren't lucky enough to be blessed with a gigantic family like we are and they don't have anyone to watch their little ones while they get better/get some stuff taken care of. So that's where we come in, we try to help them out by taking care of their kiddos while they do what they need to do.

I make sure to mention how important it is for people to help other people like that when times get tough. I also like to talk about how scary it must be for the kids we help coming into our family not knowing anyone, that usually envokes empathy so the kids are more willing to share toys, be there for them if they're upset, share my time, etc.