“Fostering means to me love, caring, fun and laughter.”
Fostering doesn’t just change the lives of children who come into a home it shapes the entire family. For 17 year old Lexi, fostering has been part of everyday life since she was six years old. Living with her parents and three foster siblings, she has experienced first-hand the challenges, rewards and unforgettable moments that come with welcoming children into a family.
When Lexi’s parents first raised the idea of fostering, it came from a conversation whilst the family watched a tv show. “My parents approached us and asked how we’d feel if they fostered. We said, yes it just felt like having extra people in our house. I remember thinking, it’s like new friends coming to my house.”
What began as the prospect of welcoming new people into their home quickly became something much more meaningful.”
Creating a Sense of Belonging
Over the years, Lexi has seen children arrive with different experiences and backgrounds. While hearing some of their stories has been difficult, she says the positive moments far outweigh the challenges.
Family holidays have become some of her favourite memories, especially seeing foster children experience things for the very first time. “It’s exciting when you see them react to new stuff like when we take them on holiday and like the time we went to Disneyland Paris. Watching their faces just made me think, I can see why my parents do this”.
For Lexi, the greatest reward is watching relationships grow naturally and seeing foster siblings become part of the family. “It’s so rewarding when you get to giggle and laugh with them like they’re siblings and think I’m really making a different in their life.”
One moment that particularly stands out is when foster siblings introduce her to others. “They introduce me as they as their older sister and it makes me think they must really look at me like that.”
More Than Foster Siblings
One of the strongest examples of family connection comes during holidays away together. Spending uninterrupted time together allows everyone to bond beyond the labels of fostering. These moments reinforce what fostering is really about creating genuine relationships built on trust, care and shared experiences.
Honest Conversations Build Strong Families
Like any family, fostering can bring challenges. Lexi believes that open communication is key to overcoming difficult moments and making sure everyone feels heard. “Sometimes just talking about it as a family even with my foster siblings present because they might need to know if they’re having the impact on that and not to leave anyone out”
Coming from what she describes as a very open family, Lexi has always felt comfortable talking to her parents and professionals involved in their fostering journey. “I come from a really open family, so I can always talk to my mum and dad about how I’m feeling. Even when our social worker visits, I have conversations with them about any challenges we’re facing and how we can work through them together as a family.”
The Small Things Matter
For Lexi, helping a child feel welcome often starts with simple conversations and showing a genuine interest in who they are. Whether it’s discussing football, asking about school, or simply spending time together, these everyday moments help build trust and reassurance. It’s a powerful reminder that small acts of kindness and connection can have a lasting impact on a young person’s life.
“Treat them like how you would meet a friend. I guess it just gives them that reassurance and makes them feel that you they care.”
What Fostering Means to Lexi
When asked to describe fostering, Lexi’s answer captures the heart of what family means.
“Fostering means to me love, caring, fun and laughter.”
She goes on to explain: “If there’s no love and if there’s no care and there’s no laughter and there’s no fun, then that’s not a family dynamic.” Her most powerful reflection is this: “A family dynamic should be someone you want to laugh with. You might want to cry with, but you definitely want to laugh with them and have a good time.”
Could You Make a Difference?
Lexi’s story highlights the incredible impact fostering can have not only for children who need a safe and supportive home, but for the entire family. By opening your home, you can create opportunities for love, laughter, belonging and life-changing memories.
If you’ve ever considered fostering, we’d love to hear from you. Contact our team today to learn more about how you can make a difference in a child’s life and become part of their story.