Important Do's
Give them a small framed photo of you with them or a small photo album. Be sure to name each person and who they are in relation to the child under each photo. (insure everything you give is first approved by the social worker or access supervisor/caregiver) Ask away from the children so if it is refused it does not upset the child. Do not be upset, add this to your collection you can keep in storage for the child. Remember children do age out of the system and this is a nice way to show that they were always in your mind and heart.
Food safety:
Saving food for a access/contact visit seems harmless enough however follow good storage and food safety tips. If baking be careful of eggs and other foods that if off could cause food poisoning. Remember if your child does get food poisoning this does not mean you have poisoned your child. Also keep in mind that there are not always nice parents out there and even they say they love their kids while hiding the monster that is within them. If your child becomes sick after an access then tests etc need to be done. Don't get mad at the system. This is about keeping your child safe.
Other friends/family:
Remember access is about the child's time with you. NOT you with them. Bringing boyfriends/girlfriends, mates etc is not a good idea. If however if there is someone special to the child ask for an appointment with your social worker and together go in and discuss an added access or a shared one as a one off or special visit. They may need to be checked etc first. This is ok. Remember cyfs have a duty of care to insure your child is safe.. Its just part of their job. If access/contact is at your home or at a family members home again please remember friends/partners etc are important to you but YOU are very important to the child and the childs contact time is very special. Leave the mates for your time and value the time with your child instead.
The more child focussed you are the chances are the bond between you both will remain a positive happy one.