Foster carer shares how to navigate Christmas with children in care

Many people look forward to Christmas, especially children. It's a time for families to come together, share delicious food and exchange gifts.

However, for children in foster care, the holiday season can bring a unique set of challenges, including experiences of emotional distress, loss and sadness arising from their separation from their biological family.

In this article, we chat with Holly, a foster carer and team lead at Berry Street, to gain insights into her experiences and strategies for making Christmas meaningful for children in her care.

Understanding and blending traditions

This Christmas, Holly will be caring for two young children. Leading up to Christmas, she engages with them in open conversations to better understand their past experiences, traditions and expectations.

Holly also shares her family traditions with the children in her care, helping them know what to expect and how they can participate in the celebrations (if they’d like to).

Navigating challenges and managing expectations

Uncertainty often surrounds whether the child in Holly's care believes in Santa. Regardless, Holly and her family assume belief to maintain the magic of childhood.

For many older children in care at Christmas, the holiday season can be a particularly difficult time.

In such situations, Holly suggests giving the young person space and avoiding pressure to join celebrations. She also stresses the need for foster carers to manage children's expectations during the holiday season, balancing connections with family with the child's emotional wellbeing.

While Christmas can be expensive, it’s important to Holly that she provides an inclusive experience for every child in her care, understanding that each family celebrates differently.

Preparing for Christmas Day and capturing memories

Holly recommends discussing Christmas Day specifics with the children in your care, including the number of attendees, and fostering an environment where they feel comfortable expressing themselves if they feel overwhelmed at any point.

When asked how the children in her care are received by her extended family, Holly warmly shares that her family treat them no differently than her other children – and that means lots of presents for all!

As Holly reminisces over past Christmas celebrations, she encourages capturing moments through photos to ensure lasting memories for the children in her care.

Become a foster carer and support a local child

Childhood is a journey. Partner with Berry Street to support a child or young person on theirs.

As a Berry Street foster carer, you’ll be a part of a team that is committed to supporting children and young people who cannot live safely at home.

By providing a safe and nurturing place to live – you'll be there for them at a crucial moment in their life.

*We use stock images to protect the privacy of the children, young people and families we work with.