Tips for Celebrating Achievements in Foster Children

Foster children have often faced adversity and instability in their young lives. Celebrating their achievements, no matter how small, can go a long way in boosting their self-esteem and sense of pride. As a foster carer, you play an important role in encouraging and uplifting the children in your care. Use every opportunity to praise their accomplishments, build their confidence and make them feel valued. Here are some helpful tips for celebrating achievements in your foster children.

Recognise Academic Milestones

Academic achievements offer many opportunities to celebrate your foster child. When they bring home a good school report or test score, let them know you’re proud of their hard work. Make certificates for ‘pupil of the month’ or ‘most improved’. Frame their best artwork or writings and display it at home. Attend school award ceremonies and academic events to cheer them on. Take them out for ice cream or their favourite meal after a job well done on an exam or big project. Recognising their scholastic efforts shows you care.

Mark Personal Growth

Not all achievements happen at school. Celebrate when your foster child demonstrates personal growth and positive behaviour. If they complete a chore without being asked, thank them for helping out. When they show emotional growth by walking away from a fight or expressing their feelings appropriately, take notice. Overcoming struggles with anxiety, anger issues or social challenges calls for recognition too. Small steps forward build self-confidence.

Throw Special Day Parties

Birthdays and holidays provide fun reasons to celebrate your foster child. Ask them how they’d like to mark the occasion. Let the kids invite a few friends over for cake, games and activities. Take them out for a special meal at their favourite restaurant. Buy gifts that reflect their hobbies and interests. Wrapping up presents and decorating with their favourite colours and characters adds to the excitement. You can use some of your fostering allowance for this. The aim is to make them feel special on their big day.

Focus on Extracurriculars

Foster children benefit from participating in sports teams, clubs and other extracurricular activities. Attend their games, matches, recitals, practices and events. Capture photos and videos to commemorate their participation. Display any ribbons, medals or trophies they earn. Frame their team photo, jersey or other memorabilia. Take them out for a treat after an event or victory. Getting involved builds skills and self-esteem.

Create Memory Keepsakes

Compile photographs chronicling your foster child’s milestones and achievements in a scrapbook or digital photo album. Add award certificates, artwork, report cards and other mementos. Journaling their growth and accomplishments makes it more meaningful. Present it as a gift on their birthday or another significant event. These keepsakes become cherished reminders of their successes.

Show Off to Family and Friends

When your foster child accomplishes something, share the good news with family and friends. Display their artwork or academic accolades on the refrigerator or a bulletin board for visitors to see. Write handwritten cards or letters praising their accomplishments. Celebrating with your wider community reinforces pride.

Foster children need extra support, encouragement and praise as they navigate childhood and adolescence. Take every chance to celebrate both big and small achievements with your foster children. Your recognition and excitement about their successes will help build their confidence and self-worth. Use a variety of creative ways to commemorate their milestones and progress.