Back-to-school tips for foster families

After the summer holidays, it can be a challenge for children and their parents and carers to get back into a school routine.

Here at Beacon Fostering, we understand the challenges that families face, and are here to offer some tips.

Routine

Ensure that uniforms are washed and ironed a few days before your child or children are due to start back at school, and store them somewhere they can be easily obtained. If they’re struggling with the change, it may help for them to wear it around the house first, to ease them back into the routine.

Also, discuss and establish the times that they will need to get up in the morning, and apply this to the rest of the school year. It can also be a good idea to implement a bathroom rota, and plan what needs to go in their school bags on the first day. Depending on their age and what the first day entails, they may only need to bring the essentials: namely their stationery, a notebook, their PE kit and, if applicable, a packed lunch.

Communication

Encourage your child to discuss their feelings with you about how they feel going back or starting primary or secondary school for the first time. Offering a listening ear, along with advice on being kind and interacting with people they are unsure of.

For younger and/or disabled children, you can discuss and help them with tasks that they might find difficult, such as opening a yogurt pot or tying their shoelaces.

If you’re looking to provide foster care in Cheshire or other areas of the North West, speak to the experienced team at Beacon Fostering today.