Children of foster carers play an invaluable role in fostering families. Yet, their impact - and the natural kindness and empathy they show to the children joining their homes - can sometimes be overlooked.
That’s why, from Monday 13 October to Sunday 19 October 2025, The Fostering Network is celebrating Children of Foster Carers Week: an annual tribute to the children of foster carers and the vital contribution they make to fostering families.
This week shines a light on children like eight-year-old Daniel, whose parents say his ability to manage the changes fostering brings to their household is the reason they’re able to continue being foster carers.
Daniel was born into a fostering family and has spent his entire life with foster siblings. In fact, his first visitor in hospital was his foster brother:
“I have a beautiful photo of C cradling Daniel,” Daniel’s mum, Lauren, tells us.
She adds that they are “incredibly proud” of the way Daniel welcomes new children into their home, taking his job of showing them the “goodie cupboard”- stocked with biscuits, crisps and chocolate- very seriously.
“Daniel is quite an adventurous energetic little boy who has a very sweet, kind nature that comes out in bucket loads when he sees another child or young person struggling.
“He always tries to involve all of the children in our home in regular games of football and he does this naturally without realising how positive an impact his friendliness and inclusiveness has on a frightened, stressed and emotional young person coming into our home,” Lauren says.
Of course, being part of a fostering family isn’t always easy. Daniel finds it hardest when children come and go quickly. It’s also challenging when teenagers stay up late chatting on their phones or watching TV, unaware that he needs a good night’s sleep, as he’s so young.
Despite these challenges, Daniel loves fostering. He relishes the chance to show off his football posters and spend quality time with his foster siblings. He has two very special big foster brothers with whom he shares “a true brotherly bond,” according to Lauren.
Daniel looks forward to continuing to make memories as part of a fostering family.
He says: “I like to meet new children and hope they like football. I like going on holidays with my family and trying new activities together. On Sunday nights we often eat out together and we take it in turns to choose where we are going.”
