In the world of foster care, there are numerous misconceptions that can lead to confusion for prospective foster carers. One such misconception is the idea that fostering a child of a similar age to your own children is ideal, as it provides a playmate for them. However, this is not always the case.
In this instalment of our "Myth Busters" series, we address this common belief and explain the policies and reasoning behind age matching in foster care in Ireland.
At Origins Foster Care, we prioritise the well-being of both the child in care and the existing children in the foster home. Contrary to the popular belief that having children of similar ages in the same household is beneficial, our policy requires a minimum two-year age gap between any child in the foster home and a child in care. This policy is in place to ensure that each child's role and identity within the family are respected and maintained.
If you have a four-year-old child at home, for instance, we would look at placing children who are either two years old or younger, or six years old or older. This approach helps to prevent any displacement in the family dynamics.
The decision on the age of the child in care also takes into account your family's preferences and needs. Some families may prefer their youngest child to remain the youngest, while others might find it more suitable to introduce a younger child into the family.
The age gap policy is designed to protect the unique needs and developmental stages of each child. As we touch on in our comprehensive guide, Fostering Ireland: Everything You Need To Know About Foster Care In Ireland, It helps to:
Dispelling myths like the 'playmate myth' is crucial in fostering a clear understanding of the foster care process. At Origins Foster Care, we are committed to providing accurate information and support to ensure the best possible outcomes for both children in care and foster families.
If you're considering becoming a foster carer and have questions about age matching or any other aspect of foster care, we encourage you to reach out to us, because fostering really can make a world of difference in a child's life.
If you're interested in becoming a foster carer or want to learn more about our policies and support systems, fill in an enquiry form to begin your journey of becoming a foster carer or get in touch with our team of fostering experts. Together, we can create a nurturing environment for children in need.
Reach out for any questions and enquiries. A member of our fostering team will get back to you as soon as possible.
