How do Birth Children Cope with Fostering?

Taking the decision to become a foster carer must be undertaken by the whole family, especially the birth children. Including them in the process makes them feel like their perspective matters which simplifies life with a foster child or young adult. 

Consult the children

Children are smarter than we give them credit for so speak to them. Explain to your child what foster care means and possible reasons why children go into foster care. Also state that foster care is temporary unlike adoption.

Explain what is required of them

Let your birth child know from the beginning what you expect from them during the fostering process. Do they need to share their room? Do they need to take the foster child to school? How do their roles and responsibilities change. Discussing this and coming to an agreement prior to the foster child’s arrival is paramount as opposed to learning as we go. That way your birth child can consent to taking on the roles that come with foster care.

Keep communication lines open

If for any reason the birth child feels uncomfortable during the foster care process, they should be able to approach you to express their concerns at any time. Continue to check in with your birth child to ensure that they are still on board with being a foster carer and sharing their home.

The life of the birth child is also affected when a foster child/young adult is introduced in the home. Help your child transition through the changes so that they don’t feel left out or neglected which may cause conflict between you or among the children. 

If you are considering fostering or know someone that is please contact us by calling +44 1702 59 77 97 or sending an email to info@fw-fostering.co.uk