For some, the journey to fostering begins with a sudden realisation; for others, it is a seed planted long ago. For Allison, fostering was something she had always wanted to do, even as a child. For Michael, it was a possibility that always kind of lingered in the back of his mind.
Living in Offaly with their nine-year-old twin girls, the couple decided the time was right to expand their family circle. They discussed whether to foster a younger child and ultimately welcomed a baby into their home. As Michael puts it, the experience has been nothing short of "brilliant".
When bringing a child into your home, it can be tempting to overcomplicate things. However, Allison and Michael found that connection happens best when you keep it simple.
The best thing to do for any child of any age is get on the floor, go back to basics and play.
The family has developed a lovely routine in their sunroom, where they lay mats on the floor for what the twin girls have dubbed their "family meeting". It is in this grounded, safe space that they connect – rolling a ball to the baby and simply enjoying each other's company.
Joy often fills the room through music. The family decided that singing together was a great way to bond – even if Michael admits his own singing is "terrible" compared to Allison’s good voice.
The twins get involved by singing songs they are learning at school, and the baby loves listening to them. For Michael and Allison, these aren't just ways to pass the time; they are the building blocks of the child's life story. They are gathering these "little small moments" now so that, when she is older, they can tell her about the evenings spent singing and playing, and how well she responded to the love surrounding her.
Allison and Michael’s story is a beautiful reminder that fostering isn't about being a "perfect" expert. It is about availability and inclusion. By getting on the floor, involving your own children, and sharing a song (even if you're no Adele or Michael Bublé), you are providing exactly what a child needs: a sense of safety, belonging, and the warmth of family playtime.
Reach out for any questions and enquiries. A member of our fostering team will get back to you as soon as possible.
