A day in the life of a foster parent…
Being a foster parent is a journey filled with both challenges and rewards, where no two days are ever the same. It’s a role that requires adaptability, patience and an endless to-do list, yet it’s one that’s deeply fulfilling, as small wins and progress remind you why fostering is such an important and meaningful journey. Here’s a glimpse into a typical day in the life of one of our foster parents.
Our day usually starts early, my daughter will wake up and gets ready for school. Meanwhile I will come downstairs with my four year old foster child to make breakfast for everyone. Most mornings we have a fun little kitchen dance, spinning in circles is one of his favourite things.
Once breakfast is done, I get him dressed and help my daughter with anything she needs. Then we wait in the front hall for his school transport to arrive. He loves to watch for it, holding his bag and standing excitedly. He’s thrilled to see the ladies who come to collect him. He’s made so much progress.
Next, I take my daughter to school, return home and get started on the day’s tasks. Life can get pretty hectic, as you’d imagine. Both children return around the same time, which is usually about 4.00pm. When my foster child arrives home, he immediately heads upstairs for his bath, splashing about for a good hour. Bath time is also when we’ve recently cracked brushing his teeth, which took ages to master but is now part of our routine.
After bath time, it’s teatime. If my daughter has a club, I’ll take her, while my foster child starts settling down for the evening. He goes to bed around 6.30pm, which gives him plenty of time to settle. Some nights he falls asleep as soon as his head hits the pillow; other nights it can take an hour. He loves laying on his beanbag with his sensory turtle and listening to the same song over again.
Once he’s asleep, I check on him regularly. Then it’s my daughter’s bedtime, and finally mine.
Weekends can often consist of family time. This is where my foster child will see his birth family and siblings. It is usually at a prearranged place and time. There’s a lot to prepare. I’d need to make sure his backpack is packed with nappies, wipes, a change of clothes, snacks, toys and everything he might need. I’d also have to ensure my daughter is ready to go. If I’m on my own, I’d bring my laptop along as well.
Whilst family time is happening, I try to catch up on admin, booking appointments, he has many medical appointments to keep track of, so I always need to stay on top of that.
After family time finishes, it’s back in the car for the journey home. Once we’re back, I make tea, ensuring my daughter also gets some much needed attention too, making sure her homework is done, that she has everything she needs for school or activities. My to-do list feels never-ending, and it never seems to shrink.
Every day feels different, but there’s always a constant stream of tasks running through my mind: log this, follow up on that appointment, and just like that, it all begins again the next day.
There’s always a need for more foster parents, as so many children in the UK are in need of the love and protection of a safe and nurturing home. If you’d love to join FCA and help us to transform the lives of children up and down the country, call us on 0800 098 4156 or fill in our enquiry form to become part of the difference which lasts a lifetime.
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