Sibling groups

[happydaze22]

Hi All,
Ive been a "lurker" for ages and have found everyones posts so interesting.
We're about halfway through the form F process now and so far, so good.
Ultimately we'd like to foster a sibling group aged between 4-10, (We've got a large dopey dog so babies / toddlers might find her a bit much :) ).
We are hoping for maybe 2 to 3 children, as our social worker is happy with the bedroom situation for that number. I was wondering if anyone had any first hand experience of sibling groups and could give us some advice as to what to expect? We have three grown up and left home children and we are under no illusion that it'll be the same as when they were young but we cant seem to find any info anywhere about the foster carers thoughts on day to day living with a youngish sibling group. Sorry for the long post by the way.

[mumofloads]

We have looked after several sibling groups. In our experience the main problem has been that because they have each other to talk to, they have tended to take longer to attach to us. On the other hand having each other has also made things easier for them as they are with others who understand their history.
Our last three placements were siblings. The eldest child (13) went to live with a family member and we are keeping the younger two (5 and 7) long term.

[happydaze22]

Thanks for the info mumofloads. One of the reasons we are aiming towards siblings is so that they'll have each other. I have a friend who was in care & part of a sibling group that was completely split up years (and years) ago as it was easier to do that in those days and she still has problems today because of it. very sad.

[mumofloads]

It is so sad when they get split up. Unfortunately there are so many large family groups coming into care. Mine are 2 of a sibling group of 6 now living in 4 differant homes. Sadly because all the placements are spread far and wide the children rarely see each other.

[slipperandpjsmum]

I think what you are considering is a wonderful thing. Its tragic when siblings get split up. When you are split up as brother and sister the distance grows between you can often never be filled. I really admire you. Please know that what you are going to do is immeasurable in its importance. My heart still aches for the lost years with my brother and sister, as does theirs over 20 years on.