Sibling groups, children ages 11 to 16 and teen moms have the greatest need for foster parents.
Foster parents provide temporary care for children who have entered the foster care system due to abuse or neglect. Each state has different guidelines, procedures, rules and training for foster parents; however, there are universal requirements.
Orientation
Contact your state foster parent association, local department of child and family services or visit your state foster parent association website. Attend a foster parent orientation session and talk with other foster parents.
Requirements
National requirements include that the prospective foster parents are 21 years or older and are financially and emotionally stable.
Evaluation
Foster parents must complete an application, criminal background check, home safety inspection, character references, and family home study or assessment.
Training
Some states require foster parents to undergo pre-service training prior to licensure or certification, while others just approve the home for child placement.
Duration
A foster child's length of stay depends on the family case plan. The goal is to seek permanent placement quickly through reunification with the birth parents, kinship care or adoption.
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