7 Steps for Becoming a Foster Parent

Becoming a foster parent is a rewarding experience that can create a lasting bond between a child and a foster parent and can also enable the parent and child to grow as persons. The foster parent application process varies between states but is fairly straightforward. The process can take a year or even longer.

For such an important undertaking that so many parents and foster children have enjoyed, it is surprising how many misunderstanding still linger about foster parenting.

Misconceptions About Foster Parents

• Foster parents do not need to be married.

• Foster parents do not need to own or live in their own home.

• Foster parents do not need to be wealthy.

• Foster parents do not need to already have children.

• Foster parents can be young or old.

• Foster parents can continue their careers.

The biggest misconception is that foster parents enter into a lifelong responsibility. While that is sometimes the case, 50 percent of foster children are re-united with one or more natural parents within 12 months.

The Foster Parent Application Process

Step 1 – Foster care is usually administered by the state. To begin the process, contact a foster care agency in your area and be prepared to undergo an orientation that is designed to familiarize candidates with the process.

Step 2 – become familiar with the responsibilities, support and training requirements of the state. Attend state sponsored foster parent training classes in order to be prepared for all the potential challenges. These classes can run from 4 – 10 weeks depending upon the program.

Step 3 – File a foster parent application. After completing the training, navigate through the paperwork and be prepared to undergo:

• Income verification.

• Criminal record screening on the local, state and federal level.

• Gathering character letters of reference.

• Age verification.

Step 4 – Meet the caseworker. This may be the most important meeting foster parents have. Respond to the caseworker’s questions responsibly and in a timely manner. If you do not have the answer, get back to the caseworker quickly with complete answers and any support requested.

Step 5 – Prepare and engage the home inspection. In some cases, a home inspection may not be required but most of the time, the caseworker will visit the residence and inspect the home for safety and security. If the caseworker makes requests for improvement, handle them immediately and offer proof of compliance.

Step 6 – At some point, be prepared to discuss your family background, education, employment history, personal relationships and social life. You can boost your case by providing information about the neighborhood in which you reside. Be ready to explain why you want to be a foster parent and why you think you would be good at it.

Step 7 – Use the time between your final interview or home inspection and notice of acceptance to become even more familiar with the process and example of foster parenting. You can connect with a foster parent network and gain valuable insight.

The foster parent process can be nerve-wracking but rewarding. Becoming a foster parent is not something to take lightly. You can sure that your caseworker will be cautious and responsible. Help make the decision easier.