What to expect when fostering a child
Fostering provides a child in need of a temporary home a family, which can really make a difference in their lives. If you believe you have what it takes to become a foster parent, read on for some common FAQs to learn about fostering to help you come to a decision on whether foster parenting is the right choice for your family.
How will my children be affected?
Of course, children can be affected by your choice to foster, meaning it is something the whole family should agree on. Depending on the age of your child, it may be harder for them to understand and if they do connect with the foster child, it can be hard on them when the child leaves. Some foster carers end up adopting their foster children, so if you are looking to foster with the open mind of expanding your family, this is also a discussion to have with your kids.
There are charities and fostering service groups out there to help children come to terms with foster children living with them and parting ways. Some children may be resistant, but you could see a massive change of heart once they discover and understand they have a new friend to play with.
Will I be supported?
As a foster carer, you will be supported both emotionally and financially. Finding a great foster care service will ensure you the emotional and practical support network you need when introducing a new child to your family home. Agencies such as Calon Cymru Fostering, who provide foster care Cardiff, will ensure that foster carers receive specialist training and development. They employ friendly social worker staff who are passionate about children and offer the right support for carers. Most foster care agencies also provide enough money for all needs of the child and you may be offered an extra incentive for your time, support and expertise.
What do I need in my home?
If this is your first foster application, there are a few things you need for fostering placements in your home to be approved by a foster care agency. Foster families need to have a spare room, so the foster child has their own private space. The exception to this rule is babies, who can share a room with you. You can foster with a family pet, but they need to be assessed and child friendly. Smoking can be an issue, especially if you smoke in the home. Foster care agencies may offer stop-smoking support – although smoking doesn’t necessarily mean you cannot foster, your home must be smoke-free. This is something to discuss with an agency before going further.
Do I need any qualifications?
Foster parents do not need any special qualifications to be a foster carer, just a good heart and the ability to care for children as children need a good stable family in which to grow and develop. As stated earlier, foster care agencies will offer any training and development you need or want to undertake to help you in your new role. Even if you haven’t had your own children, this doesn’t stop you from fostering if you have a relevant background in working with children or caring for other children in your own family.
There are many reasons why people may choose to foster a baby or a child and even if you are a single parent and/or by yourself, the choice should still lie with the whole family. New foster parents will find that becoming a foster parent is a really special role and one that shouldn’t be taken lightly, which is why foster parents quit before they’ve given it a real shot. If you want to go further, speak to a local fostering agency for more support and advice.
