Do you have what it takes to be a foster carer?

Foster Carer Checklist

You may wish to consider the following checklist in helping you to decide whether you have the qualities to become a foster carer for Key Assets.

• You genuinely like and enjoy children and can remain enthusiastic about them even when things are difficult
• You understand that looking after children from another family is different to caring for children in your own family
• You appreciate that fostering will have an impact on your own children and your extended family
• You do not expect children to be grateful for the care you show or demonstrate through your actions
• You can accept that children may take some time to respond to the care you offer
• You can accept a child who may reject or strongly disagree with ideas, views and feelings that you hold
• You can understand that children may lie, steal or display sexualised behaviour
• You can allow and encourage a child to have feelings of affection for others
• You can accept and deal with anger from children. You have a good sense of humour
• Your marriage, partnership or support network of friends and family can withstand the pressures associated with fostering
• You can, when necessary, reach out to others for support
• You are willing to share your life experiences with others
• You can accept that things in your house might be moved or broken
• You can accept failure in yourself and others
• You can be satisfied with small steps of progress