Dexter & Caleb – children who foster

Foster4 recognise the importance of celebrating the contribution children of foster carers make in the success of fostering. Connected Carer, Gemma nominated her sons, Dexter and Caleb aged 8.

Gemma and her family have been a fostering family for two years and live in Chester. Dexter and Caleb won Foster4’s Sons and Daughters Caring Award for being really helpful with their nephew.

Gemma’s grandson came to live with the family at 3 weeks old. Gemma nominated Dexter and Caleb for being amazing uncles to their nephew. Gemma tells us “they helped with bath times, passing creams and nappies. When my grandson got older they have helped reading him books and playing with him and also helped teach him to ride their pony Texas.”

Gemma tells us “Dexter and Caleb are so kind and caring. They will always give up their toys and share. I asked Caleb recently why he ALWAYS gives my grandson his toys even when he is playing with them himself and Caleb said ‘I just want him to be happy’.”

It has not always been easy but “the boys have taken everything in their stride and always been really helpful with their nephew.” Gemma describes Dexter and Caleb as “kind, caring and enthusiastic”. Gemma tells us, Dexter and Caleb “have loved having their nephew living with us. They feel like he is a very important part of our family.”

Gemma tells us the positive changes she has seen in her grandson whilst in their care. “My grandson came to us at 3 weeks old so we have had him from a very young age but he has definitely flourished in our care. My grandson already knows his numbers and alphabet and I feel this is because the boys spend lots of time with him encouraging learning with help from them reading to him every night.”

Gemma’s grandson has also helped calm Dexter who is on the SEN register and can struggle with emotions, Gemma tells us Dexter “settles after meltdowns as soon as he sees his nephew”.

Dexter and Caleb received a certificate and £25 amazon voucher from Foster4 to recognise the vital contribution they make to fostering.