Welcoming a foster child into your home is an exciting, but oftentimes intimidating process. If you are setting up your home to welcome in a new child, consider a few home design tweaks to make them feel at home as soon as they enter your space.
A Private Space
First, you want your youngster to have his or her own space in the home, for sleeping, studying, and getting ready in the morning. If you can give them their own room, that’s great. If they will be sharing a bedroom with another child or children, you can still personalize it with decor. Get some nice bedding in modern colors, add some homework supplies at a desk, and think about making a sign with their name to hang above the bed.
Down Time with Family
In the living room, also make sure a new kid has a spot where they feel comfortable. Maybe add a bean bag chair in their favorite color, or get an arm chair where they can spread out and feel comfortable. You can include some throw pillows and a throw blanket or in a print with their favorite cartoon character if they are younger. This lets them know they have their very own place in the room.
In the Kitchen
Eating is a key part of welcoming anyone to your home, so don’t overlook this space. Those with a Masters in social work from online schools know that including a new person into regular eating rituals is important in making them feel welcome. Decorate the table with new place mats, making sure the foster child is included with their own seat. Make a spot in the kitchen with a basket of favorite snacks, letting them know they are welcome to take whatever they want. And put up a family schedule in the kitchen, making sure to add the foster child to the calendar.
Bathroom Setup
In the bathroom, spruce up the space with nice new towels and rugs, as well as a new shower curtain that is age appropriate for the child. Set up a basket of toiletries and personal items for them so they can take and use whatever they need, and won’t feel like a burden asking you for something every time they need it.
The bottom line is you want this child to feel welcomed. Taking a few steps to show you have thought about their comfort will let them know you have their best interests at heart.
