Bringing a foster child into your home is a wonderful thing. You are providing a safe, secure, comfortable and supportive home environment for a child in need. It’s the kind of thing that benefits both the child and you, as nothing feels better than helping others. And while the initial transition period may be finished, milestones are likely to occur while under your care. This is especially true if you are long-term fostering, as you’re bound to hit many milestones.
If your foster child has a birthday coming up and this is the first one spent under your care, you want to be sure it’s a positive experience. Here are some tips that can be helpful.
Get Their Input – Ask for Their Feelings
Your initial response may be to plan a party and make a big deal, but it’s important to be mindful of how their birthday may make them feel. This could be their first birthday away from their birth parent, so it may not be all joy and excitement that they are feeling. Their approaching birthday may be causing sadness, loneliness, anger and other emotions.
This is why it’s a good idea to talk to them. Ask how they are feeling. Ask how they would like to mark the day, and what activities would they like to do. Perhaps their ideal birthday is something quiet and very low-key.
Ask If There Are Traditions They Want to Continue
This is also a great opportunity to talk to your foster child about birthday traditions that they are used to and would like to continue. Perhaps there was a special type or flavour of cake they would get, an activity they would do, a spot they would visit, and so forth. You want to make their day as special as possible for them.
On the flip side, don’t be afraid to also introduce new traditions and activities. Maybe you have some that your family embraces — this is your chance to include your foster child in these festivities.
Have Them Make a List of Gift Ideas
If you haven’t had much time with your foster child, then you may not know all their hobbies and likes as of yet. This can make gift-buying a little difficult. There’s nothing wrong with asking them for a list of birthday gift ideas. At the very least this list will give you some inspiration and point you in the right direction.
There May Be an Annual Birthday Allowance
In terms of costs for the gifts and any party-related decor and supplies, you may receive an annual birthday allowance. On top of the fostering pay you receive, there may also be additional benefits so it’s well worth looking into. These are meant to help you create memorable experiences for the child. Other additional benefits can include an annual festival allowance and paid respite. Knowing what you’re eligible for will help with budgeting.
By using all of these tips you’ll be sure to make your foster child’s first birthday with you a special and positive experience.