Since 1967, on or around Hans Christian Andersen's birthday (2nd April), International Children's Book Day is celebrated to inspire a love of reading and to call attention to children's books. But why is reading so important for foster children?
Read MoreWhy should I become a foster carer? The answer to that question is different for each person, here we cover some of the main reasons why many people decide to become a foster carer.
As both a parent and a teacher I have had many conversations with worried parents and carers regarding how they will manage homeschooling their children whilst the schools are closed due to coronavirus. I understand that some foster carers may be particularly worried as children in care are particularly sensitive to uncertainty and any changes to their routine. Many children in care have experienced trauma and attachment issues and may be especially vulnerable at this time.
Read MoreIt is important to talk openly to children and reassure them about the changes they are seeing around them due to Coronavirus. Following the school closures, foster children may worry about themselves, their family, and friends getting ill with COVID-19. Children in care are particularly sensitive to uncertainty and any changes to their routine. Many children in care have experienced trauma and attachment issues and may be especially vulnerable at this time. Parents, family members, and other trusted adults play an important role in helping children make sense of what they hear in a way that is honest and accurate, and that minimises anxiety or fear.
Read MoreHave you been considering fostering for some time now but not sure how to go about applying? We can assure you it is a lot easier than you probably think.
Read MoreWorld Book Day seems to get bigger and better each year with children celebrating literature by dressing up as their favourite characters and participating in events all over the globe. We believe that books are an amazing way to develop imagination in young people and as they grow up, many children will relate to characters they read about. Read on for a list of children’s books we think represent diversity in families and cultures.
Read MoreFostering Rotherham are proud to support New Family Social’s LGBT Fostering & Adoption Week, 2nd-8th March. This year the campaign’s theme is ‘Why not you?’, designed to tackle some of the myths that may deter LGBT+ people from fostering and adopting.
Read MoreIt is important that potential foster carers understand the financial benefits and tax allowances available in order to budget for their family’s outgoings. The HMRC has specific tax relief in place for foster carers which consists of three parts.
Read MoreHere at Fostering Rotherham, we are incredibly fortunate to be able to offer all our foster carers and children in care the services of our wonderful in-house Therapeutic Team. Read on to find out about the fantastic support and guidance that our Therapeutic Team have to offer…
Read MoreFebruary shines a spotlight on the importance of children’s mental health with Children’s Mental Health Week taking place between the 3rd and 9th of February. Katie is currently developing and delivering a range of Emotional Resilience and Parenting courses and was more than happy to talk to us about supporting children with trauma and attachment issues.
Read MoreIf you’re stuck for things to do this February Half Term, here is our quick guide of some of the fantastic activities and days out in and around Rotherham this half term.
This year Children’s Mental Health Week takes place between the 3rd and 9th of February. Set up by children’s mental health charity Place2Be, the week highlights the importance of children’s and young people’s mental health. This year’s theme is “Find your Brave”.
Read MoreWe believe that childcare professionals have the patience, understanding and determination to really make a difference to the lives of young people and would make excellent foster carers.
Read MoreWhile the application process remains generally the same, the benefits and support offered by Independent Fostering Agencies and your Local Authority can differ.
Read MoreEvery child needs care, compassion and safety but some children in particular require some additional care. Foster carers for disabled children offer additional care to children who may have autism, learning difficulties, physical disabilities or medical conditions. There is a growing need for us to find foster homes for children with additional needs. If you are a kind, open-minded and patient person, you may be able to change a child’s life.
Read MoreEvery person who decides to become a foster carer is doing something amazing but no two are the same. There are many different reasons why people decide to foster, just as there are many different reasons foster children are placed into care. Every situation is different and this calls for a flexible approach to fostering to meet the needs of every child.
Read MoreA great foster carer is not always the most qualified or the most experienced. They have qualities that help ensure a foster child or young person enjoys a fulfilling and happy life. We believe these are some of the most important qualities which make a good foster carer.
Read MoreWhether you are a first time foster carer, or have been fostering for years, having a bank of resources readily available that you can access for parenting support is hugely reassuring. We have compiled a list of useful websites, podcasts and books that our foster carers have recommended.
Read MoreChristmas is a time for families and when you are a fostering family, it can be even more important to find activities that the whole family enjoys. We’ve put together a few suggestions of some Christmassy activities that you and your fostering family might enjoy.
Read MoreOur very own Rotherham foster carer Christine Lunn, 74, from North Anston, has received an MBE from The Duke of Cambridge for her services to fostering.
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