Have you been thinking about fostering a child or children lately? Are you finding it hard to decide if this is something you truly want to do? As this is a decision that involves many people, it’s best taken after properly thinking through. In fact, we wouldn’t even blame you if you took several years to make this decision. Here are a few questions to ask yourself, to help you along with making your decision in regards to this.
Do you know the difference?
There’s a huge difference between fostering a child, and adopting a child. And it is in no way, we have to emphasize, a training period if you have plans to adopt kids. Fostering generally happens when the parents are either not capable of taking care of their children, or if they are not available temporarily. It can be due to court cases or even simply an accident which has them hospitalized. Understand that unlike with adopting, where a child becomes a permanent part of your family, here eventually, this child will be leaving your home one day.
Are you prepared for the extra work?
Being foster parents Victoria is no easy task. And this is regardless to whether you will be taking care of toddlers or teenagers. It involves a lot of work, and will require that you work harder physically and mentally. Some children in situations as such are abused and may require assistance in even doing their daily work. You may even have to deal with nightmares and bed wetting; even with older kids. Ask yourself if you’re prepared for this.
What is your true motive behind this decision?
Be honest with yourself here. Ask yourself why you want to do this, why you’re putting yourself (and your family) through this experience. Sure, you get paid to look after them, and yes, this will make you “look good” among your friends. But if these are the reasons behind your decision, then it may be better not going through with it. Honestly, your only reason for taking this decision has to be your need to help someone in trouble.
Have you spoken to the experienced?
And last, it’s always a good idea to speak to social workers of this field and others experienced in fostering before you crystalize your decision. Not only will listening to their experiences help you make the decision, but if they don’t scare you off it, they might even be able to give you a few useful points in juggling responsibilities and handling the children…