Collaborative Post¦ If you are about to begin your fostering journey, congratulations. There are a lot of things to look forward to, but keep in mind that there is a lot of hard work to come as well. As long as you take the necessary steps to prepare, everything will be great. The following guide is filled with five useful tips for any first-time carer looking for a boost.
Remember to Trust Your Instincts
Human beings often have great instinctive insights about people. There is no better time than now to lean on those instincts. If your gut is telling you to pay attention to something, it is for a good reason, and you should listen. Even if it turns out to be absolutely nothing, these are not feelings you should readily dismiss. Trusting your instincts is also about believing in yourself and finding confidence within; two things that are non-negotiable for foster carers as well.
Lean on Your Fostering Allowance
There are going to be a lot of things you must buy for your foster child, especially one who arrives at your door with the clothes on their back and not much else. There is every possibility that you will need to purchase a basic wardrobe selection for them, including shoes. You will definitely need to provide basic toiletries and so on, and they could also be lacking in school equipment, etc. There are all sorts of financial demands for children, especially those who are being put into care, and this is where your allowance comes in to use. You can read more about what your allowance will include at fcascotland.co.uk.
Be Open Minded
There is a lot to be gained from being open minded. Practically, it will help you get to know your foster child a lot better if you leave out expectations and dive into the process with a completely open mind. Why will this help? Well, because an open mind is far more accepting of other humans and their struggles and will be willing to see a path ahead as opposed to a path to control an immediate solution. It takes a long time for a foster child to feel settled in a new placement, and if you are going to stick it out, you will need to let go a little and be all in.
Set the Bedroom Up
The foster child’s bedroom will become an important part of your home. This must be set up before they arrive to make the transition a smooth one that they feel comfortable with. Get all the furniture in place, and make sure it is clean and tidy.
Stock the Fridge and Cupboards
As well as the bedroom needing to be up and running, there is a strong case for stocking up the fridge and cupboards too. A house filled with all the food and drink essentials will be far more inviting and remove the need for any mad dashes to the shop which will cause anxiety and so on.
First time carers should go into things with an open mind and a willingness to keep on learning. There is always something new to absorb, and you should be led by your foster child as much as possible.
Disclosure: This is a collaborative post.