A Christmas Reflection: What Scrooge Can Teach Us About Fostering
As Christmas approaches, many of us revisit Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. On the surface, it’s a story about a grumpy old man learning to embrace generosity and joy, but if we look closer, it can also offer a powerful reflection on the journey of children and young people in care.
In the beginning, Scrooge is a bright, curious child, full of life and hope. But something happens along the way – disappointment, loss, or hurt – that hardens him. For children who have experienced trauma, neglect, or inconsistent care, this path is all too familiar. They can become guarded, wary of adults, and protective of themselves. Their early light doesn’t disappear – it’s just hidden behind layers of survival.
Enter the ghosts. In Dickens’ story, they guide Scrooge gently through his past, present, and future. For children in care, foster carers often play a similar role. They are the consistent, safe adults who help children revisit the joys they may have lost, understand the reality of their feelings today, and imagine a future filled with trust, connection, and hope.
The Ghost of Christmas Past reminds us that even when children have been hurt, the child they once were – the part of them capable of love, wonder, and trust – still exists. The Ghost of Christmas Present shows the importance of noticing children’s daily experiences, validating their feelings, and responding with empathy rather than judgement. And the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come inspires hope: with consistent care and nurturing relationships, children can envision a life beyond survival mode.
By the story’s end, Scrooge reconnects with love, kindness, and generosity. Children in care, too, can rediscover their joy and sense of belonging – but it takes patience, consistency, and attuned support from the adults around them.
This Christmas, as we celebrate, it’s worth remembering that like Scrooge, children sometimes need guidance to reconnect with their best selves. And as foster carers, the support, empathy, and stability you provide can be the very gift that allows a young person to believe in love, trust, and possibility again.
