Imagine how a foster child experiences moving into a foster home. Whether this is a permanent or temporary arrangement, you’ll need to make every effort to let your foster child know that they are welcome in your home. Here are some tips on how to go about doing this.
Create a Personalised Space for Your Foster Child
Start with the bedroom your foster child will be using. Make it attractive and suitable for the age of the child. You should not store household items, or those belonging to family members, in the child’s room. All cupboards and furniture with drawers should be emptied out completely. Give the child the option to make changes, such as repositioning the bed. An armchair is a nice touch as it gives your foster child a place to sit comfortably when they want to be alone. You will also get support from your agency, such as thefca.co.uk, regarding your foster child’s personality and preferences.
If you need to paint the bedroom ahead of your foster child moving in, aim to have the room aired out and the smell disappear before they arrive. New linen and pillows indicate that you have placed value on their comfort and were looking forward to having them in your home. Find out what items they need, such as toiletries and clothing, and get these as soon as possible.
As time goes by, you will be able to pin their drawings to the fridge or other space you have allocated. Include your foster child in family photographs. Make sure these are displayed.
Show Your Foster Child Around Your Home
Your foster child will adapt much faster if they know where everything is. Show the child which bathroom to use and any privacy rules about going into your room. At the same time, emphasize that your foster child can come to you when needed or if they are feeling lonely. For example, how will you handle the situation if the child has a nightmare?
Let your foster child know that if they are hungry outside of mealtimes they can help themselves to a healthy snack like fruit, nuts, or a glass of milk. If you have biological children too, show your child which toys they can play with freedom and which ones require permission. This delineates that every person’s possessions will be respected, including their own.
Explain the Rules and Routines
Your foster child will experience more freedom to feel at home by knowing what to expect. Provide information on bath times, mealtimes, and getting up in time for school or preschool. Help your foster child to pack their school bag and point out where you will put their lunch box and juice.
Ask your foster child what they feel most comfortable calling you. Generally, unless the child is going to be with you until they leave school, your first names are best. However, if the child wishes to call you Dad or Mum, you should allow this, always keeping in mind that it is their choice.
If you follow these guidelines, your foster child will make the transition smoothly and feel welcomed.
