Stepping into the wonderful world of foster caring means opening your home and heart to new experiences. The first week with a foster child can be a whirlwind of emotions, with both you and your foster child navigating unfamiliar terrain. But with the right activities in place, this initial phase can be filled with laughter, connection, and building a trusting bond.
Board Games
Few things are as universally enjoyed as board games. They have a magical way of bringing people together without the need for much conversation. Whether it’s a strategic game of chess or the family-favourite Monopoly, board games are an excellent way to interact, engage, and get to know each other in your first week of fostering a child with fosterplus.co.uk.
Cooking
Why not go on a culinary adventure together? Choose a simple recipe that’s easy for kids to learn, gather up the ingredients, and plan a delightful cooking session where you can make dinner together. As you measure, mix, and taste, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to laugh, share, and even make a little bit of a mess. Plus, the reward at the end – a delicious homemade dish – only adds to the excitement. 
Puzzles
There’s something uniquely satisfying about piecing together a jigsaw puzzle. Spread out a puzzle on a table and dive into the delightful challenge together. The process encourages teamwork, patience, and celebrates small achievements. As each piece finds its home, foster carers and children alike can feel proud of the shared accomplishment.
Art and Creativity
Introducing art in the early days can be a therapeutic and expressive outlet for foster children. Sketching, painting, or simply doodling can offer them a voice when words might fail. For foster carers, it’s a chance to witness creativity in action and, perhaps, share some artistic skills of their own.
Spend Time in Nature
The great outdoors is filled with wonders just waiting to be explored. Consider taking a leisurely stroll in a nearby park, planting a small garden together, or simply lying on the grass and watching the clouds. These activities not only build a connection with nature but also pave the way for spontaneous conversations and shared experiences.
Music
Music has a beautiful way of evoking emotions and memories. Spend an evening sharing your favourite tunes or discovering new genres together. If you are musically inclined, introduce an instrument, or maybe just have a mini dance session in the living room. It’s all about enjoying the rhythm and bonding over new melodies.
Storytelling
There’s an innate charm to storytelling that transcends age. Pull out a captivating book, gather around, and dive into the world of tales. Whether it’s a modern-day adventure or a classic fairy tale, stories provide a fantastic platform for imagination and discussion. For your foster child, it can be a comforting routine. And for you, it’s a chance to introduce favourite stories from your own childhood and create new memories together.
The first week with a foster child can be filled with uncertainty for both of you. But with the right mix of activities and games, you can break the ice and create a beautiful new beginning.
