Some people feel the professional demands of the role aren’t quite reflected by the word ‘parent’, and so prefer to be called a foster carer. However, some find being called a parent is a closer, more family-driven term which brings you and your children closer. For many, the term works towards forming emotional connections between foster parents and their foster children, ultimately, improving trust and emotional support instantly.
In reality, everyone who looks after a foster child feels an emotional connection, whether they call themselves a foster carer or a foster parent. Whatever you decide to call yourself, we recommend picking the term you’d feel more comfortable with, and sticking to one term to prevent any confusion on your child’s behalf. The terms serve the same purpose and ultimately they achieve the same end goal, and the main objective of fostering remains the same.
