This Is Not Just Fostering…this is helping young people grow in confidence
Kelsie Carter, TACT Engagement & Activity Practitioner
On why the smaller moments can sometimes have the most impact.
When people think about fostering, they often focus on what happens within the foster home. What is sometimes less visible is the wider support around children and young people: the relationships, experiences and consistent care that help them feel safe, confident and valued.
As an Engagement & Activity Practitioner (EAP) at TACT, I support children both one-to-one and in group settings. This work looks different for every child, but every piece of it plays an important role in supporting them to thrive.
One-to-one support that makes a difference
One-to-one time allows space for children to feel seen and heard. This might be through an activity, a conversation, or simply being alongside them in a calm and consistent way.
For some young people, having dedicated time with someone who listens without judgement helps them build confidence, trust and self-belief. At other times, this support helps children through tricky moments, supporting them to manage big emotions or talk through challenges. Often, it’s the small, quiet moments that create the biggest impact.
Building confidence through activities
Activity days are a key part of my role and offer children something equally important – a sense of belonging.
Group activities allow young people to connect with others who may have similar experiences, helping them feel less alone. Through shared activities, they can have fun, develop social skills and build friendships in a supportive environment.
Recent activity days have included Forest School Fun, an interactive animal day, our Annual Awards Ceremony at Weston-super-Mare Pier, and an upcoming group trip to Legoland which everyone is very much looking forward to!
Small moments that have a lasting impact
The work EAPs do is made up of many small moments — a conversation, a shared activity, a quiet word of encouragement. On their own, these moments might seem simple, but together they mean so much more.
By giving children our time, consistency and care, we help them build confidence, resilience and a belief in themselves.
