Fostering/Legal Guardianship?

Question

Me and my husband are going to foster our nephew and eventually it will probably lead to legal guardianship. Its similar to adoption as he will be living with usfor the forseeable future(not going home like some foster children do)

My question is this - Do you think it would be appropriate for us to have a party for him when it is finalised to welcome him properly and introduce him to all of the family? I would love to do this so our family and friends get to make a fuss of him as there was never much of a celebration when he was born. I dont want to hurt his biological parents though as they are still part of our family and they are still going to see the child. Is there a way we can celebrate without hurting anyones feelings?

Answer 1

I grew up in foster homes and had a similar situation where my aunt and uncle took me in.  I think a small celebration would be wonderful.  There was a small get together for me when I arrived and it made me feel the love that I had SO long forgotten about. It will make him feel welcome.

One thing I suggest is not to become his legal guardians.  Reason being, if he decides to go to college and you are his guardians than he will not receive much financial aid.  When I was taken in by my aunt and uncle they decided not to adopt or become legal guardians for that fact right there. College was paid for by grants and many scholarship because I was a 'ward of the state' when I turned eighteen.  My aunt and uncle also opened up a bank account and put the majority of the money received to help raise me into an account which they gave me access to when I went to college.

I am sorry to go way off topic, but I just thought I would throw that out there for a bit of useful info.

And to go back to the original topic, the biological parents are probably very thankful that their child will be in the hands of family rather than strangers so I highly doubt having a celebration will be a problem.

best of wishes and thanks for keeping another child out of the system and giving him a good home!

Answer 2

Go ahead.

Answer 3

maybe ask his biological parents if it's ok with them

Answer 4

I wouldn't have a party right away, as he needs time to transition to your home and bond with you and your husband. Too much fuss can be overwhelming for little guys (my son was completely overwhelmed at his first birthday party!) A small, quiet family gathering might be a better choice.

Congrats!

Answer 5

I think it would be nice.  I wouldn't make a big fuss, though.  He might be embarrassed and uncomfortable as it is.  You don't mention how old he is.  Just be mindful of his feelings.

Congratulations!

Sandy