Transitions

Day 359

Day 1 of transitions. Bill and June met Sprout and the foster carers at their home. They spent time caring for Sprout, learning about their routines, and starting to bond. It was a shorter day but the most time they had spent with Sprout so far. It went well and left them eager for more.

Day 360

Day 2 of transitions. Their first longer day, with more independent care of Sprout. Bill and June took Sprout to a nearby National Trust property for a walk and lunch. Although Sprout was still not exclusively in their care, they got their first real sense of being a family.

They also took part in some of Sprout’s bedtime routine, including bath time. The foster carer passed on some gifts from Sprout’s birth family, which Bill and June treasured.

Day 361

Day 3 of transitions. A slightly shorter day than Day 2, beginning with a review meeting. The foster carers were delighted with how Sprout had settled and recommended a change to the plan: Day 3 would be the final day meeting at the foster carers’ home, instad they would bring Sprout to be cared for at Bill and Junes home starting from from Day 4.

They went for lunch and a walk around a local park, stopping for coffee before returning Sprout to the foster carers. The carers also passed on more of Sprout’s toys, some gifts, and Sprout’s savings.

Day 362

Day 4 of transitions. The first day with Sprout at their home. It was a day full of play and care entirely at home. They showed Sprout their room and even got them to nap in the cot. Sprout met Bill and June’s dog, and the pair got on immediately!

They also did bath time before returning Sprout to the foster carers for the night. The foster carers brought over more of Sprout’s belongings to help with the transition.

Day 363

Day 5 of transitions. An early start allowed Bill and June to manage the breakfast routine for the first time. This was the longest day yet of Sprout in their care, but they were already starting to feel confident and ready to keep them full-time.

They also went for a walk, during which Sprout fell asleep in the pram. Not wanting to wake them, and with pleasant weather outside, Bill sat with Sprout until they woke up.

Day 364

Final day of transitions. Sprout’s entire foster family brought them to Bill and June’s home. Bill reflected that although it might have felt awkward, it was valuable for the children who remained with the foster carers to see where Sprout would be living — making the experience worthwhile.

By now, Bill and June felt right at home with Sprout, and Sprout seemed equally comfortable. They shared a relaxed day together before returning Sprout to the foster carers for the final time.

Day 365

Exactly one year after submitting their initial enquiry, Sprout moved in permanently with Bill and June.