How to tell a foster child they are leaving

When it comes to navigating the complexities of foster care, knowing how to tell a foster child they are leaving, and preparing for saying goodbye to a foster child, are critical aspects that require sensitivity and care. The conclusion of a foster placement is invariably a deeply emotional event, marked by feelings of sadness and loss, experienced by both the foster family and the child moving on.

Understanding the Reasons for a Foster Placement Ending

There are many different reasons why a foster placement may come to an end, some common reasons for having to say goodbye to a foster child are;

• Adoption by another family
• Reunification with the birth family
• A child being old enough and ready to live independently.
• A move to a different foster home for various reasons
• A need for a specialist care placement

Strategies for Saying Goodbye to a Foster Child

The process of saying goodbye to a foster child is undeniably challenging. At Family Fostering Partners you will be supported throughout this delicate situation by our support staff. Maintaining a sense of normalcy and calmness is vital. Trusting in the judicial or professional process that decides the child's next steps is crucial for foster parents, even if they have reservations about the child's move. It's important to remain positive, as this transition is aimed at serving the best interests of the child, though they themselves may not fully understand or agree with it. Having open and age-appropriate conversations about the upcoming changes is key to facilitating a smooth transition.

Emphasising Positive Memories when having tell a foster child they are leaving

Sharing memories through photos, stories, or videos can play a significant role in reinforcing a child's sense of value and personal identity. In some cases, maintaining contact between the birth and foster families can also be beneficial.

Navigating the Emotional Landscape

The period leading up to and following the departure date can be fraught with stress and emotions. Sudden changes, such as an abrupt removal from the home, can be particularly hard to process. It's essential to take things one day at a time, allowing everyone who has been part of the placement to adjust and process their loss.

Addressing Unsuccessful Placements

At times, a foster placement may not work out, leading to a mix of emotions, especially when challenging behaviours arise. It's crucial for foster parents to remember that deciding to say goodbye to a child so that everyone can seek a better and more appropriate match can be a sign of strength, not failure.

Support and Guidance when having tell a foster child they are leaving

The topic that we’ve covered in this blog post can be daunting and upsetting, however, it is unfortunately a part of fostering and is therefore an important subject to consider and learn about. It’s important to note that if you faced with the possibility of saying goodbye to a foster child then we will be with you to support and guide you throughout the process. Knowing how to tell a foster child they are leaving is probably the most difficult task a foster parent may ever have to face, that’s why, at Family Fostering Partners, we will be there for you throughout your fostering journey, supporting and helping in any way that we can. Additionally, every foster parent with us receives free membership of an organisation called FosterTalk who are able to offer even more support and guidance to carers.

If you would like to learn more about becoming a Foster Parent, you can visit our “Contact Us” page to request a call or an information pack. Alternatively, you can phone us on 0330 0948816 or you can use our online live chat feature to speak to a member of our staff,