This thesis explores the role of foster parents in caring for foster children and the challenges
they face in their daily lives. The theoretical part presents the foster care system in Slovenia, its
objectives, and legal framework. Special emphasis is placed on the process of obtaining foster
parent status, training programs, and the role of foster parents in maintaining relationships
between foster children and their biological parents. The study also examines the collaboration
between foster parents and educational institutions, particularly kindergartens, and the
challenges associated with integrating foster children into preschool education. The empirical
part is based on interviews with three foster mothers and a social worker with extensive
experience in the foster care system. The research focuses on the key factors that influence the
decision to become a foster parent, the training process and its perceived adequacy, the
relationships between foster and biological parents, and the experiences of foster children in
kindergartens. Findings indicate that the reasons for choosing foster care vary, ranging from
personal life experiences, altruistic motives, family support, to financial independence. While
some foster parents found the training beneficial, others believe it should include more practical
content and preparation for real-life challenges in foster care. Maintaining contact with
biological parents is often challenging, as parents are not always consistent in their visits or
show little interest in maintaining a relationship with the child, which can impact the child's
emotional stability. Experiences with integrating foster children into kindergartens were mixed.
While some children were accepted without difficulties, others faced discrimination and unfair
treatment. A lack of understanding from educational staff and institutions in some cases
hindered the children's adaptation and inclusion in a new environment. The research highlights
the importance of comprehensive support for foster parents and foster children. Key challenges
in the foster care system remain the improvement of foster parent training, stronger systemic
support in maintaining contact with biological parents, and greater involvement of educational
institutions in the foster care process. Only a holistic approach can provide foster children with
a stable and secure environment that promotes their healthy development and sense of
belonging
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