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Caring for birth children when fostering in Nottingham

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Caring for birth and foster children when fostering in Nottingham

Fostering opens up a whole new experience of relationships for families. It can help birth children grow and develop in many ways; helping them feel part of a team, making new friends and learning to become more empathetic. Sometimes, birth children can feel neglected when their family decides to foster and it may take time for them to adjust to this new way of life. If you’re considering fostering in Nottingham and already have children of your own, these tips will help you give them support as well as a positive experience of being a foster family.

Fostering as a shared decision

Being involved in the decision to foster is vital for the whole family. Birth children should be seen as equal family members when it comes to making such a life-changing decision. Becoming a foster family will have a huge impact on their lives and it is important they are aware of how and in what ways things will change for them. Providing your birth children with as much information as possible is essential when it comes to making the decision to foster, as well as throughout your fostering journey. At Fostering Dimensions, we strive to provide as much information as possible for those considering fostering in Nottingham. From our FAQs, blog posts and our training support and development, we’re always on hand to advise and guide you on fostering.

Preparing your birth children for fostering

Keeping communication with your birth children about fostering clear and open allows any possible changes or difficulties to be raised prior to the beginning of a placement. Sharing as much information as you can, without breaching any confidentiality rules, about your new foster child will give birth children and understanding of the foster child before they join the family. This will prepare them for any difficult behaviour or situations that may occur. The more prepared your birth child is, the better they will cope with the situation. At Fostering Dimensions, we’re committed to preparing those fostering in Nottingham for any situation. Our team is always on hand to help with any queries you may have.

Creating time for your birth children

Welcoming a foster child into your home can be a challenging time for any family. Routines may be disregarded as a whole new way of family life is introduced. While it is important to give your foster child love and attention to welcome them into the family, forgetting to do the same for your birth child could lead to them feeling neglected and resentful towards the family. In turn, this could cause further issues down the line. Creating specific time to spend with your birth child will let them know they have not been forgotten or replaced. Spending time with their new foster sibling and the whole family is important for birth children to allow them to adapt to the change. Having dedicated time just for them lets birth children know that although family life has changed, the relationship they have with their parents has not.

Caring for your birth children

Most birth children are happy being part of a foster family and recognise the many benefits that come with the experience. Fostering allows birth children to learn valuable life skills such as sharing, becoming more caring and having more responsibility. It is important to consider your birth child and their feelings when it comes to fostering. Keeping them informed can reduce conflict and allow them to play an important part in the fostering experience. If you’re considering fostering in Nottingham, contact us today to find out how we can help you start your fostering journey.