As part of our 20 Years of Time Out Fostering celebrations, we’ve been honoured to receive heartfelt stories from foster families across our community. The following account was kindly shared by one of our foster families, who have chosen to remain anonymous. Their journey is a beautiful reminder of the love, growth, and adventure that fostering can bring.
Five years ago, during the festive season, our family embarked on a journey that changed our lives forever. As a couple, we had always dreamed of extending our family. With a little boy, then aged 10, already filling our lives with joy, we wanted to give another child a loving home—one who might have otherwise been left to navigate the uncertainty of their early life. That Christmas, a beautiful little girl joined our family, and we couldn’t have been more excited. Our family finally felt complete.
The early days were filled with hope and excitement, but they were not without challenges. As time went on, we realised something important: we weren’t naturally brilliant parents as we had once believed! Our son, it turned out, had been a very compliant and easy-going child, which had made parenting seem effortless. With our new foster daughter, we quickly learned that we needed to adapt and grow as parents.
Thankfully, PACE (Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity, Empathy) training provided us with the tools and understanding to navigate these challenges. It wasn’t easy, but it was transformative. By shifting our parenting style and embracing PACE principles, we found a way forward. Slowly but surely, we built a foundation of trust and understanding with our foster daughter. Looking back now, we can see how far we’ve come and how much we’ve grown as a family.
Over the past five years, we have shared countless adventures together. From small moments at home to grand explorations across the globe, every experience has strengthened our bond. We’ve been fortunate to travel far and wide as a little family of four, creating memories that will last a lifetime. We’ve explored the magic of Disney, marveled at the wonders of Thailand, soaked up the vibrancy of Dubai, and ventured to America, among other incredible destinations.
Travelling has been a way for us to show both our children the beauty and diversity of the world. It’s not just about the places we visit but the experiences we share—the laughter, the learning, and the love that fills every journey. These adventures have taught our children resilience, adaptability, and an appreciation for different cultures and perspectives.
As we reflect on these past five years, we’re filled with gratitude for the life we’ve built together. Now, with Time Out celebrating 20 excellent years, we’re inspired to set a new goal: to visit 20 places of interest as a family. We want to continue exploring, learning, and creating unforgettable memories together. This journey isn’t just about ticking destinations off a list; it’s about embracing the joy of discovery and celebrating the love that binds us.
Our story is one of growth, adventure, and the unyielding power of family. We hope it inspires others to open their hearts and homes, to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and to cherish the moments that make life extraordinary.
