78

In the first section, this article briefly discusses the evolution of practices involved in the institutional foster care of children. The authors then focus on an “unusual mothering” model developed in a famous Hungarian nursery called Loczy, and, in particular, on the innovative idea of designating an adult who will serve as the principal referent for the child. A qualitative study conducted with seven childcare assistants working in two children’s foster care homes then makes it possible to acquire an in-depth understanding of the issues at stake in the implementation of this principle in France. The lack of training and the little amount of time spent analyzing professional practices were highlighted by the professionals as major difficulties, although undeniable benefits of such a person for the child were clearly seen.