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Will and Connor have been fostering with us for four years, and they kindly agreed to share their experiences and the positive outcomes fostering creates for children and young people. (All names of young people have been anonymised for privacy.)
How Fostering Changes Lives
The impact of foster care on children and young people is profound. Will and Connor believe that fostering provides stability, emotional support, and opportunities for children to thrive. They have witnessed improvements in school performance, better emotional regulation, and increased confidence in the young people they have cared for.
As a full-time foster carer, Will is able to dedicate his time entirely to fostering, ensuring each child receives one-on-one attention and a nurturing environment.
Fostering Brothers and Sisters: Building a Loving Home
Currently, Will and Connor are fostering brothers and sisters under the age of five. They have created a warm and loving family home where love and stability are part of daily life. A structured routine has had a positive effect on the children’s behaviour, helping them feel safe and secure.
At first, the older brothers and sisters experienced feelings of jealousy when the younger ones received more attention. Will and Connor recognised this challenge early on and worked together to ensure both children received equal care and quality time. By maintaining balance and reinforcing their bond as brothers and sisters, they helped the children develop a healthier relationship.
Encouraging Growth Through Hobbies and Activities
Finding hobbies and activities that children enjoy is a crucial part of fostering. When K, a young person in their care, initially tried football, he found it frustrating and sometimes left feeling angry. However, after exploring different activities like basketball and singing, K discovered what made him happiest. Will and Connor encouraged him to try new things until he found hobbies that brought him joy and built his confidence.
The Importance of Family Connections in Foster Care
Maintaining family relationships is essential for many foster children. Will and Connor made a concerted effort to help K stay connected with his brother, even when challenges arose due to fluctuating behaviour. They also prioritised maintaining strong relationships with the birth families of the brothers and sisters in their care. By facilitating regular visits with grandparents and parents (when appropriate), they ensured that family connections remained intact, supporting the children’s emotional well-being.
Why Fostering Matters
Stories like Will and Connor’s highlight the incredible impact fostering can have on children and young people. By providing love, stability, and support, foster carers help children develop emotionally, socially, and academically.
If you’re considering fostering and want to learn more about how you can make a difference, get in touch with us today.
