If there is one thing that is undeniable about foster care settings, it is that the carer has to show up and be present during every interaction with the children they look after. Giving your all to a foster child means being the best you can be and embracing every day as a fresh one, and here’s how it can be done.
Get to Know Each Child
A foster carer has the ultimate responsibility of getting to know each and every child that they come to look after. You will see a range of ages, backgrounds, cultures, behaviours, successes, and profiles as you gain more experience, but every child is unique in their own special way. A relationship can only be successful for both parties if you are doing your job properly, and this means taking your time to treat every human being that comes into your care as an individual. Everyone is different, and this is one of the most exciting parts about this role.
Look After Your Mental Health
It is difficult to show up and give your all if your mental health is suffering. Get to know the most common red flag warning signs that you may be approaching burnout or struggling in another way with depression or anxiety. By doing this, you are ensuring that any child that you look after is properly protected and that you are giving your absolute best to this commitment.
Work with Your Agency
Every foster carer picks their own path when it comes to selecting an agency, but one thing that can remain consistent is that this should be an entirely collaborative relationship. Get to know your agency through their website like this one, fosterplus.co.uk, by regular interactions with your assigned social worker, and through undertaking all of the training and embracing the ethos as well. You will feel better supported to carry out your duties as a carer, and it will be mutually beneficial if there is trust and amicability underpinning what’s to come.
Be Flexible
No two experiences are ever identical, and this is why you must be flexible in your approach to caring at any given moment. There will always be successes and challenges to celebrate and navigate. Embracing a flexible attitude will enable you to be the carer you are supposed to be and live up to your potential in this role. There is always a need for a degree of flexibility when looking after children, regardless of the setting. Their mood can change with the wind, and they need a special kind of engagement that requires non-linear thinking and responses.
Have Boundaries
While there is a strong case for being flexible, it must also be balanced out with clear boundaries. This is a great way to protect yourself and ensure that all safeguarding procedures are followed correctly too. Establish boundaries from the very first day you meet a new foster child, and make sure they remain consistent throughout your time together.
Giving your all to a foster placement is the only way to see positive results. A child will know if you are not all in, so open your mind and embrace the experience.
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