Curious About the Process?
Here are the Specifics
First, those interested in becoming foster parents should know that the process can take anywhere from three to six months after they first call or visit their state agency. During their initial contact, they will be asked a few basic questions and then sent an introductory packet. Some states allow parents to become licensed through a private agency.
Parents will then attend an informational meeting where they are given an overview of foster parenting to help them decide if foster parenting is right for them. Some areas may send a social worker to the home instead, but either way parents receive the same type of information and an application.
Foster parenting is a chance to make the world a better place… one of the most challenging experiences you will have in your life… and one of the most rewarding opportunities you will ever volunteer for.
The National Foster Parent Association
The Homestudy
After applying for a license, the agency will conduct a home study, which is a thorough assessment of applicants and their home. This helps the agency determine if parents are good candidates for foster parenting, and if so, what type of children would be a good fit for their home.
In preparation for the study, parents fill out piles of forms and answer questions about their past and present life, including their childhood, relationships with others and the kinds of things they are interested in. Parts of the study are done through in-person interviews.
By this time, the agency has contacted the applicant’s references and done a background check. Next is the home assessment. A social worker goes down a checklist and notifies prospective parents about anything that needs to be taken care of before children are placed in the home. Most are simple items that are quick and easy to fix.
Training
At that point, prospective parents have likely started 10 to 30 hours of training, depending on what state they live in. Usually the training includes CPR and first aid. The classes also cover the reasons why children enter care and what to expect when caring for children who have experienced trauma and neglect.
When all the information for the home study has been gathered, a social worker writes up an extensive report about the applicant and the home. It also includes information about what type of children would be a good fit.
Soon thereafter, applicants receive their foster care license and are ready for their first placement.
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