Foster Parenting | 3 Ways to Balance Foster Parenting When You Have Children of Your Own

Foster parenting is a very noble, selfless act that can help children who are in a bad place. Some people decide that foster parenting is something they want to do even after they have already had children of their own. Sometimes this balance can cause a rift between the foster children and biological children that are vying for attention from their parents. Here are a few ways to ease tension and make sure that everyone involved feels comfortable with the situation.

Involve Your Biological Children in the Decision

Before committing to foster parenting, it is a good idea to make sure that your entire family is on board. It is possible that your children may be apprehensive at first but often including them in the discussion can make them feel better about the situation.  Even if your biological children are still somewhat unsure, you can use this time to better explain how the living arrangement will work. This way there are fewer surprises down the road.

Explain Potential Attention Issues

Sometimes foster children can require extra time and attention because of struggles that they have faced in their lives. This is only natural, but this extra attention could cause a biological child to become jealous that they are not receiving equal attention. In circumstances like this, it is best to be proactive and set your biological children down and explain the situation. Let them know that you are there for them, but their foster siblings may require more focus because of their current circumstances.

Make Individual Time for Each Child

When foster parenting, how you allot your attention can be a big concern for both foster children and biological children. To make sure that no one feels left out, it is a good idea to block out time to spend with each child individually. This is good because you can do an activity that they like and it gives each child an opportunity to discuss private things with you one-on-one.

If you are considering foster parenting you should contact Children First Foster Family Agency. Children First can help you understand if foster parenting would be right for your family.