It takes all types of people from all walks of life to care for children. You don't need to be a superhero to become a caregiver - just an everyday person who has the ability to care for children.
Caregivers were previously sometimes called foster parents, but now include whanau/family and kin carers. They are people who are able to care for children in a safe, stable and supportive environment.
Caregivers can be an individuals, couples or families of different ages, backgrounds and family circumstances.
You do not have to be well off or have a large home to become a caregiver. You do, however, need to be committed to meeting the individual needs of children in your care.
To become an approved caregiver you will need to complete an assessment process. You may also have to complete some preliminary training.
Caregivers may also have to complete additional specialist training to cater for a child's particular physical or emotional needs. As it is usually the intention to have the child return home, caregivers need to be willing to build relationships between children and their families.
Caregivers need to be patient and show understanding to children in their care. It is important that they are considerate of their own emotions, the emotions of their family and the emotions of children being fostered.
Caregivers can have a very positive impact on a child or young person's life. They can provide the extra support children need, in what can be a very difficult and confusing time in their lives.
Caregivers can work for their family, an agency (non-government organisation) or the Department of Child, Youth and Family Services.
Caregiving can bring a number of rewards. It can be a very rewarding experience for you, you own family, for a child in your care and that child’s own family.