As summer reaches its peak and the school holidays are in full swing, August brings warmer days, family adventures, and well-deserved rest. At Lighthouse Fostering, we’ve made a conscious decision to pause all training sessions during August.
This isn’t a scheduling oversight – it’s a deliberate choice. We know the incredible work foster carers do all year deserves time to step back, recharge, and enjoy the simple pleasures summer offers. After months of dedication to supporting children and young people, August is a chance to breathe and reset.
Why August Matters for Foster Carers
Fostering is one of the most rewarding yet demanding roles. Throughout the year, foster carers navigate challenges, celebrate milestones, and create safe, nurturing environments. While fostering brings profound rewards – watching a child flourish or being part of life-changing moments – it also requires immense physical and emotional energy.
Foster carers often put others first, but August offers a natural opportunity to restore balance. With longer days, school holidays, and a slower pace of life, it’s the perfect time for rest and renewal. At Lighthouse Fostering, we know that supporting carers means giving them space to focus on themselves and their families.
The Science of Rest and Renewal
Research shows that regular breaks are essential for physical and mental health. For foster carers, who give so much to others, the risk of burnout is real. Taking time to rest isn’t about laziness – it’s about sustainability.
Rest decreases stress, boosts creativity, and restores empathy and patience. For foster carers, this renewal benefits the children in their care, improving their ability to handle challenges and stay present during everyday moments.
Making the Most of Your August Break
A meaningful August break looks different for everyone, but it’s about intentionally using this time to refresh.
Enjoying the Outdoors
August’s warmth and daylight are perfect for spending time outside. Whether it’s a picnic, a day at the beach, or relaxing in the garden, nature offers simple ways to recharge. Outdoor activities like walks or feeding ducks can also create positive memories and strengthen family bonds.
Quality Family Time
With school routines on hold, August creates more space for family time. This could mean relaxed breakfasts, family game nights, or cooking together. Simple activities – like reading, puzzles, or building sandcastles – are often the most meaningful. The key is to be present and enjoy each other’s company.
Prioritising Self-Care
Self-care is essential for foster carers and can take many forms. It might mean reading a book, pursuing a hobby, or enjoying quiet moments. Take the time to focus on your physical health, catch up on sleep, and process your experiences. Investing in your well-being helps you provide the best care possible.
Supporting Foster Children During Summer
While August is a time for foster carers to recharge, children in care may have unique needs during school holidays. The absence of routines can feel unsettling for some, but the relaxed schedule also offers opportunities to address individual needs and build trust.
Creating a loose but predictable structure, involving children in planning activities, and ensuring consistent mealtimes can help make summer a positive experience for everyone.
Preparing for September
August is about rest, but September will bring a return to routines and training – something to look forward to with renewed energy. Use the final weeks of August to reflect on what brought you joy and how you can carry some of that balance into the coming months.
Our Commitment to You
Pausing training in August is part of our commitment to supporting you holistically, not just as foster carers but as individuals. When training resumes in September, we’ll be here with fresh opportunities and continued support, ready to help you grow in your fostering journey.
By taking this break seriously, you’re also modeling self-care and balance for the children in your care, teaching them the importance of rest and prioritising well-being.
Looking Ahead
As you enjoy your August break, remember this time is a gift to yourself and your family. Step away from formal commitments, embrace the chance to rest, and restore your energy for the journey ahead.
Come September, we’ll be ready with new training and support. But for now, enjoy the sunshine, make time for loved ones, and focus on what brings you joy. You’ve earned every moment of this well-deserved pause. Have a wonderful, restful August!