Fostering at Christmas
Christmas is considered one of the most magical times of year. With twinkling lights, frosty mornings, and lots of gifts, what's not to love? However, for some children this time of year can trigger negative memories and past traumas.
Watching children's faces light up on Christmas morning when they see all of the gifts under the tree is truly unforgettable. The children we have at our agency may not have experienced that before they come to us for different reasons. Some parents aren't in a financial position to give presents to their children, or they are unwell and aren't home at this special time of year, or some children may have experienced a degree of neglect and weren't able to celebrate Christmas in the past.
Triggers to watch out for at Christmas
• Food can be a big trigger for foster children. Many Most of the children in our care have been through some form of neglect and may find food a negative concept. Trying to not overwhelm the child with big portions and multiple snacks can be a good way to try and improve their relationship with food. Similarly, having good food available for them to help themselves may avoid them feeling the need for binging and stashing food as a coping mechanism.
• Foster children are separated from their birth family at a special time of year, so they may feel particularly upset, angry, or frustrated or even and a burden at this time of year. It can be hard to make them feel welcome and comforted without overwhelming them as this season can trigger negative emotions and memories for them or they may just feel sad not to be with their birth family.
• Some foster children may have seen the abuse of alcohol in their family home, so be cautious of your alcohol consumption in front of them.
If your child or young person is struggling with any of the triggers listed above, your Supervising Social Worker is just the other end of the phone to help you. Don't hesitate to ask for support when you need it.
Merry Christmas!
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(Made to each fostering household with a placement).