The Best Podcasts To Listen To If You’re New To Fostering Children
The world of fostering children is rich with resources, from books and research papers to informative videos. Yet, have you considered the value of podcasts? Recognising that we all absorb information differently, podcasts offer a unique format, often featuring in-depth interviews with experts tackling specialised subjects that might capture your interest. We’ve curated a selection of outstanding podcasts that delve into the intricacies of foster care within the UK, alongside broader parenting podcasts addressing various challenges. These audio gems provide insights and advice, making them an invaluable addition to your learning toolkit.
Why Are Podcasts a Useful Resource When Fostering Children?
Podcasts stand out as a uniquely valuable resource for those fostering children due to their accessible and versatile format. They offer a wealth of knowledge and insights right at your fingertips, allowing you to dive into a range of topics from expert advice and legal guidance to personal stories of challenges and triumphs in the fostering community.
Unlike more traditional forms of learning, podcasts fit easily into a busy schedule; you can listen and learn while commuting, doing household chores, or during a break in your day. They provide an intimate learning experience, often bringing voices of experienced foster parents, children, and professionals directly to you, making complex subjects more relatable and understandable.
Moreover, the diversity of podcast content means that no matter your specific needs or questions, there’s likely a podcast that addresses it, offering support and community no matter where you are in your fostering journey.
Specific Podcasts for Foster Parents
- All About Fostering
Even though new episodes are no longer released, this podcast by the foremost authority in fostering children, The Fostering Network, provided 14 concise episodes that offer a glimpse into the fostering sector. Covering a spectrum from narratives of foster carers and crucial foster care statistics to the criteria for nominating individuals for the Fostering Excellence Awards and accounts from care leavers regarding their arrangements after turning 18, this series presents a comprehensive overview of key aspects within the field.
Listen to All about Fostering on Spotify.
- The Therapeutic Parenting Podcast
The Therapeutic Parenting Podcast, produced by the Centre of Excellence in Child Trauma, caters to parents and carers touched by trauma, whether personally or through the children they care for. This can be extremely helpful when fostering children, as it provides real life, relatable circumstances. It explores various themes such as:
- Locating support for therapeutic parenting
- Recognising signs of developmental trauma disorder in children
- Assisting your child with sleep challenges
- Navigating and comprehending the family courts system
Listen to The Therapeutic Parenting Podcast with the Centre of Excellence in Child Trauma.
Podcasts About Parenting in General
- Child Protection
The NSPCC’s Podcast delves into various aspects of child protection, targeting foster carers, parents, social workers, teachers, and others involved in child welfare. Topics covered include:
- Tips for effective safeguarding
- Strategies for ensuring children’s safety online
- Insights into the Together for Childhood initiative
- Information on the underwear rule for child safety
- Support strategies for children with learning disabilities.
Listen to Child Protection on NSPCC Learning.
- Holistic Child Psychology
Dr. Nicole Beurkens holds the distinction of being the foremost holistic child psychologist globally. Over her 25-year career, she has committed herself to equip parents with straightforward, potent, and scientifically-backed methods that address the core issues of children’s attention, anxiety, mood, and behavioural challenges, enabling them to achieve their full potential. Her podcast addresses subjects such as:
- Assisting children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD)
- Holistic approaches to treating children who have experienced trauma
- Strategies for helping teenagers cope with anxiety
- Educating children on the importance of oral health
- Supporting children who experience bed wetting
Listen to Holistic Child Psychology with Dr Beurkens.
Comedy Parenting Podcasts
- Parenting Hell
The “Parenting Hell” podcast offers a comedic yet insightful look into the trials and tribulations of parenting. Hosted by well-known comedians Rob Beckett and Josh Widdicome who share their own unfiltered experiences, the show delves into the chaotic, funny, and often relatable aspects of raising children. From the sleepless nights and toddler tantrums to the moments of unexpected joy and the lessons learned along the way, “Parenting Hell” provides a candid, humorous perspective on the realities of parenthood, making it a must-listen for anyone navigating the highs and lows of raising kids.
Listen to Parenting Hell on Spotify.
Want to learn more about fostering children? Join Family Fostering Partners today and embark on a transformative journey of making a difference in the lives of children in need. Our community is built on compassion, support, and a shared commitment to providing loving homes to foster children. Whether you’re considering becoming a foster parent or are ready to complete an application form, we offer the resources, training, and camaraderie you need to thrive in this vital role. Take the first step towards becoming a part of our fostering family – reach out to Family Fostering Partners now and start making a lasting impact.
