Thursday 24 March 2016
Fostered children feature quite regularly in some of children’s most loved stories, and what is clear in each of these narratives, is the underlying theme of friendship and love. These stories support the belief that friendship can come from anywhere, not just from a friend, and sometimes it can be found in the most unusual of places.
We take a look at five of our favourite characters from children’s stories, who grew with the support of some loving friends and family members, fostering them when they needed it most.
Bambi
The story of Bambi brings a tear to the eyes of many. When Bambi’s mother is tragically killed by a hunter, we see Bambi fostered by his friends Thumper and Flower. Thumper and Flower help answer the inquisitive and curious questions of the young and playful Bambi, and offer a supporting role in his development. We watch Thumper, Flower and Bambi grow into adults and eventually start families of their own.
Tarzan
The story of Tarzan is one loved by both children and adults. It has been adapted several times as a film and in many other media. Tarzan is raised in the jungle by apes, then later in life returns to human civilization only to realise that his fostered environment of the jungle is actually where he belongs. What is clear in Tarzan is that friendship can come from places you might least expect it. Similar to Tarzan, is the story of Mowgli in the Jungle Book. Mowgli is also raised by animals who become his friends and provide him guidance through life.
The Wizard of Oz
Fleeing the clutches of the Wicked Witch of the West, Dorothy makes her way down the yellow brick road to find the Wizard of Oz who might be able to help her get back home. Although she does eventually and rather famously click her heels together and utter the words, “there’s no place like home” returning to her Aunt Em and Uncle Henry, along the way she meets some unforgettable friends in the form of the Scarecrow, the Cowardly Lion, and the Tin Woodsman who all show each other great kindness and support.
Harry Potter
One of the most popular children’s books of our time, Harry Potter was placed into the care of his aunt and uncle. Harry Potter perhaps finds his true family at Hogwarts where he meets his lifelong friends Ron and Hermione- the trio form a close bond as they battle against the Dark One.
Sleeping Beauty
The story of sleeping beauty is rather familiar to us, but what we often forget in the story is that Sleeping Beauty, Princess Aurora’s parents, transfer her custody over to the three good fairies Flora, Fauna and Merryweather until the Princess’ sixteenth birthday. Her parents do this out of love for their daughter, wishing to protect her from the evil Maleficent’s plans.
Reading with your foster child is a great bonding experience, and an ideal way to build confidence through learning.
If you want to find out more about the difference you could male to a child’s life by foster caring, why not attend one of the NFA’s regular meet and greet fostering events held all over the UK. Visit our events page to discover what is happening near you.