Creating a happy home where nobody gets upset, argues or feels alone can often be a daunting task for parents, especially when the house is full of children of different ages.

When babies, toddlers and teenagers are living under one roof it can often be difficult to keep everyone happy especially when foster children and young people are living in a home with families’ birth children.

Foster carers across Bolton have worked hard for decades, taking in youngsters of all ages and making their house a safe and secure home.

Together, these foster carers have shared their golden rules for parenting so that families can enjoy spending time together with little conflict and very few disagreements.

Their number one piece of advice is to be patient.

Make time and allowances for everyone to prevent anyone getting upset or feeling unhappy.

Children and young people need time to settle in and feel at home, so give everyone some space and try not to put any pressure on new arrivals.

Being flexible and a willingness to adapt to change can help make a happy home, especially where younger children are concerned.

Established routines might not work for everyone and could need tweaking to ensure each member of the family is comfortable and feels at home.

Listening to looked after youngsters is crucial to a happy family life and making sure they understand who they are and where they have come from is something that should continue to be a part of their lives.

Foster carers suggest allowing time to think and reflect before making snap decisions, especially when it comes to resolving conflict and disagreement, and the consequences for poor behaviour should be fair and not based on emotions – even if this means counting to ten.

They also believe that, as a family, it is important to spend quality time together even if it is just simple things, as the small things can often have a big impact on a young person’s life.

Could you become a foster carer?

Do you have what it takes to make a difference?

Prospective foster parents often look at the role from different angles but they all care about children and want to help them.

Foster carers need to be kind and loving but also firm when required and help a child feel safe and secure in a loving home.

Some have their own children and feel like they still have more to share and others didn't have children but want to give their time and attention to a child or young person in need.

Do you want to have a positive impact on a child's life and give something back to the community?

Do you feel compelled to help older children or sibling groups?

There are many reasons to become a foster parent and while the role can often be challenging it can also be extremely rewarding.

The fostering team at Bolton Council would love to hear from you.

Contact Foster Bolton on 0800 107 1564, email fostering@bolton.gov.uk or visit www.bolton.gov.uk/fostering