December is often seen as a magical month. Lights switch on, routines change, homes fill with excitement and celebrations. For many families this is a season that feels warm, bright and joyful. For the children and young people in foster care, the picture is often more complex.

Over recent weeks our team has noticed an increase in emotional challenges within placements. This is not unusual for this time of year. December brings its own pressures, memories and expectations, and these can trigger strong emotions in young people who have experienced loss, uncertainty or instability.

A month of sparkle and shadows

The festive season creates a contrast. When everything around us glitters, the darker moments can feel heavier. Young people may experience sadness, worry, anger or confusion. They may struggle with memories of past Decembers or with the feeling of not being where they expected to be. Even happy moments can bring mixed emotions.

Recognising this is an important part of supporting them.

Inside Out: Making space for every emotion

In our Fostering Attachments training, we talk about emotional intelligence using ideas inspired by the film Inside Out. The key message is simple: there is room for joy and sadness in every life, and both emotions can coexist.

Young people do not need to “pick” one feeling. What they need most is a safe adult who can pause, observe, and wonder what emotion is driving their behaviour. This small moment of reflection helps us respond with patience rather than pressure.

Sometimes the question is not “How do we fix this?” but “What does this young person need right now?”

Riding the wave together

At Five Rivers Fostering, we work every day to create stable, nurturing environments where children and young people feel understood. December reminds us how important that stability is. Our carers show incredible strength and compassion during this season, offering reassurance when emotions rise and fall.

Supporting children through the highs and lows of December is not always easy, but every small act of understanding makes a difference. To our foster carers, thank you for all you continue to do. Your presence helps young people ride the emotional wave of this season with greater confidence and safety.

If you are finding this month particularly challenging, please reach out to your link worker. We are here to support you every step of the way.