Could you foster?
10 qualities you need to foster
1. A down-to-earth attitude
You take things in your stride. If something’s a problem, you’ll find a solution. And it’s not the end of the world…
2. Patience
Good things come to those that wait. Gaining a young person’s trust and respect takes time.
3. Good humour
Children and young people are fun and so are the things they do (even if you sometimes only realise this with hindsight!)
4. Confidence
You’re now a role model for children and young people, and they’ll respond to your confident approach to life.
5. Being a good listener
Being able to listen and respond appropriately to a child or young person will make a big difference to your relationship with them.
6. Nurturing
Nurturing confidence, a healthy lifestyle and new skills is second nature to you.
7. Resilience
You can take a few knocks (and a few minutes out) and then get on with the job in hand!
8. Good communication
You know the importance of sharing information, keeping in contact and working well with others. Your foster child’s happiness depends on it.
9. Commitment
Fostering isn’t a hobby. It requires a commitment, not only to the children but to your own learning and development.
10. An open mind
You never know what might happen next. But that’s OK, it might even be fun…!