Building a strong relationship with your foster child will take time. Finding meaningful ways to connect can make a big difference in your child’s confidence and sense of security. Here are six creative ways to bond with your foster child.
1. Garden
Planting flowers, vegetables, or herbs together teaches responsibility. Gardening also gives opportunities to talk and enjoy time together.
2. Arts & Crafts
Arts and crafts will let children express their feelings in a creative way. Painting, drawing, or building small projects can be relaxing and fun while also giving foster parents insight into a child’s personality and emotions.
3. Create a Life Story Book
Making a life story book helps children feel seen and helps them to feel understood. Include photos, drawings, and memories from their past and present. This is a valuable activity to encourage open communication and helps foster children process their experiences in a supportive, safe environment.
4. Cook and Bake Together
Cooking or baking will create shared memories. Simple recipes, like cookies, cakes or homemade pizza, are a good idea to start with, and to give your foster child a sense of accomplishment.
5. Explore the Outdoors
If you’ve been looking at foster care Wales, such as with //saferfostering.org.uk/foster-care-wales/, outdoor activities, such as walking, cycling, or visiting a park, will help your foster child relax.
6. Play Board Games and Puzzles
Board games and puzzles teach patience and problem-solving. Playing games together creates fun, relaxed moments and helps your foster child feel safe.