Experiencing disruption and moving to a new foster home can be an extremely unsettling time for children in the care system. The uncertainty and sudden changes in environment and routine can negatively impact their physical and mental wellbeing. As foster carers, there are several positive steps you can take to help the child build healthy habits, provide stability, and aid their transition into their new home.
Get Advice from Your Foster Agency
Your foster agency, such as fcascotland.co.uk, should be able to provide advice and support based on the specific needs of the child you are caring for. Ask them for input on establishing good sleeping, eating and exercise patterns for the child. They may also be able to recommend a counsellor or support services to help both you and the child process any trauma or emotional issues. Taking guidance from professionals can help lay the foundations for positive new habits.
Create Consistent Routines
Establishing fixed daily routines gives children an increased feeling of safety and stability. Try to implement regular times for waking up, mealtimes, schoolwork, playtime, chores and bedtime. Visual timetables with pictures and symbols can help children understand and follow daily routines, especially younger ones. Consistency, order and structure in the foster home is vital after the disruption of moving placements.
Encourage Healthy Eating
Providing nutritious meals and snacks at regular times can improve mood, behaviour and physical health. Avoid buying processed, sugary foods and instead give children fresh fruit and vegetables, whole grains, proteins and dairy. Involve them in meal preparation to make it a bonding activity. Be sensitive about trying new foods if they display signs of food anxiety. Eating together also gives a sense of family unity but try not to push the idea if you feel resistance.
Facilitate Plenty of Sleep
Sleep is essential for health, healing and growth, yet disrupted routines can interfere with sleep patterns. Help children wind down through quiet activities before bed like reading stories. Ensure their bedroom allows for restful sleep – it should be cool, dark and quiet. Avoid screen time for an hour before bed. Sticking to a regular bedtime (and wake up time) kickstarts healthy sleep cycles, helping improve behaviour, concentration and wellbeing.
Stay Active Outdoors
Physical activity outdoors has enormous benefits for both physical and mental health. Take children to local parks, woods, beaches or playgrounds so they can run around in nature. Fresh air and natural daylight also encourage healthy circadian rhythms. Active play allows children to release emotions and anxieties in a positive way. Join in with ball games and other outdoor activities to strengthen your bond through play.
Be Patient and Offer Reassurance
The transition period will be challenging, so you must be patient and avoid getting frustrated. Provide lots of affection, praise and encouragement as children learn new home routines. Regularly reassure them that this is their new forever home and you are there to keep them safe. Children who have experienced trauma may struggle to trust and bond. Patience helps them understand this environment is stable, secure and supportive.
Creating healthy habits for foster children after disruption ensures they gain stability, security and structure during major life changes. Following professional guidance on their needs, establishing routines and involving them in activities lays strong foundations. With time, patience and compassion, new healthy patterns will be formed to aid their transition into a forever home.