What To Expect When Fostering A 1 Year Old
My first foster children just so happened to be a one year old and there’s a lot that I learnt and a lot that I didn’t even think about. As foster carers we tend to jump in and get into care mode right away but it doesn’t always mean that we are prepared. Take a look at what I learned when I looked after a 1 year old and what to expect when you foster a one year old.
What To Expect Fostering A One Year Old
Below you’ll find some of the things I found out when fostering a one year old and some of them I really wish I’d known about before going into it. I have four children but obviously the children that we foster come from different backgrounds and that’s why it’s important to expect the unexpected.
Sleep Deprivation
One of the biggest adjustments for foster parents of a one-year-old is sleep deprivation. Many children in foster care have experienced instability, trauma, or inconsistent caregiving, which can disrupt their sleep patterns. You may encounter frequent night wakings, difficulty settling down, or separation anxiety at bedtime. Establishing a bedtime routine can help create a sense of security—soothing activities such as a warm bath, reading a book, or gentle rocking can signal to the child that it’s time to sleep. Patience is key, as it may take time for them to feel comfortable and safe enough to sleep through the night.
Varied Behavior
One-year-olds are at a developmental stage where they are beginning to express their emotions more openly, but they may not yet have the language skills to communicate effectively. This can lead to mood swings, frustration, or tantrums. A foster child may also display behaviors linked to past experiences, such as clinginess, difficulty trusting adults, or resistance to routine changes. It’s essential to respond with understanding and consistency, offering reassurance and modeling healthy emotional regulation. Over time, as they feel secure in their new environment, their behavior may become more predictable and settled.
Constant Attention
A one-year-old requires nearly constant supervision and interaction. They are highly curious and eager to explore their surroundings, often pulling up on furniture, putting objects in their mouths, and testing boundaries. Foster children, in particular, may require even more attention as they learn to bond with their caregiver and build a sense of trust. Creating a safe, engaging environment is essential—babyproofing your home, offering age-appropriate toys, and engaging in playtime can help keep them stimulated while ensuring their safety.
The Need for New Stimuli
At this stage of development, children thrive on new experiences that stimulate their senses and encourage learning. A foster child may not have had many opportunities to explore and engage with the world around them, making it even more crucial to provide enriching activities. Simple activities like reading, singing, sensory play with different textures, and outdoor exploration can be both enjoyable and educational. Observing what interests the child and introducing varied activities will help foster cognitive and social development.
Final Thoughts
Fostering a one-year-old comes with its unique set of challenges, but it is also an incredibly rewarding experience. By providing patience, structure, and love, you can help a young child feel safe, secure, and ready to grow. Over time, you’ll see the impact of your care through their trust, confidence, and developmental progress.
It’s also more than okay to not know what you’re doing to start, especially if this is your first one year old foster child. Reach out to your social worker and DBS approved network for help and guidence if the need is there.