How Do You Become A Foster Parent?
Posted on: 17 June 2021
Some children don't have parents or relatives to take care of them. Their families may be deceased or simply unable to provide the loving care they need. Foster parents are an important part of their communities. They house, clothe, feed, and love kids who have nowhere else to go. Becoming a foster parent can be a unique and rewarding experience. Here are four things that interested adults can do as they learn how to be a foster parent:
1. Honestly evaluate your capabilities and resources.
Anyone who is older than 21 is technically able to become a foster parent. However, not everyone is cut out for the job. Being a foster parent requires patience, understanding, and a significant time commitment. Before starting down the road to becoming a foster parent, you should take some time to honestly reflect on your capabilities and resources. Ask yourself if you have the right temperament to be a foster parent. You should also make sure that you have room in your home, budget, and heart for a new foster child.
2. Talk to other foster parents.
Being a foster parent comes with a lot of responsibility, but you don't need to bear the weight of that responsibility alone. You can find understanding and support in the company of other foster parents. Before pursuing certification as a foster parent, you should take the time to speak to people who are currently fostering. Learning about the challenges of foster parent life firsthand can give you a better idea of what to expect.
3. Become a licensed foster parent.
You will have to obtain a license in order to become a foster parent in your state of residence. In most states, you'll have to attend a class about foster parenting before passing a test. You'll also need to pass a background check and home inspection after submitting your application to become a foster parent.
4. Accept a child into your home.
Once you're a licensed foster parent, you are officially eligible to foster a child. Foster parents can specify the ages they feel most comfortable fostering. If you feel more comfortable with younger children or with teenagers, make sure you specify that on your application. The relationship between foster parents and foster children can be intensely rewarding. Some foster kids even become permanent parts of the family. Make sure to reach out to the foster care agency or your child's social worker if you have any questions or concerns. Remember to take advantage of all the resources available to you.
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