1. Helping Kids in Need
Foster care is an alternative living arrangement for kids of all ages who have been removed from their home due to abuse or neglect. Foster care is intended as a short term solution for an immediate problem. But because each child's situation is unique and handled individually, there's nothing to say how long a foster care arrangement could last. If it's safe, a foster child will reunite with his family eventually. Otherwise, he may be placed in a permanent adoptive home.
2. Preparing for Foster Family Life
Those who wish to become foster parents must undergo evaluations to insure their home is suitable for kids. Every adult who lives in the house must pass a criminal background check to make sure kids aren't placed in an unsafe situation. In addition, each state requires prospective foster care parents to have some level of training. Every state has different rules and regulations, so check with your local Human Services office for details.
3. State Issued Support
The state will typically pay for health, dental and vision coverage for foster children who live in your home. In addition, you may be eligible to receive some food stamps or some monetary payment to help care for your foster kids. Some states offer a voucher to help kids obtain clothing and other essentials when they are first placed with a family. Other states offer clothing vouchers to help with school clothes each August. State financial aid is not enough care for a foster child, and foster parents will not see a financial profit. This is done intentionally, so that people who become foster parents do so out of genuine concern for kids in need.
4. Realistic Expectations
Foster children can come to you with a variety of challenges. If nothing else, they'll be frightened and uncomfortable because they're separated from their family. Expect a pretty tough adjustment period. Remember, these kids have undergone trauma; it's unreasonable to expect a perfectly happy and well-behaved child to arrive on your doorstep, ready to be a part of your family. In fact, foster children might need counseling and medical attention, the extent of which will vary depending on the type of abuse or neglect they suffered. In addition, plan to visit a dentist and eye doctor with your foster children.
5. Fostering Success
There are a number of social networks that offer support and advice for foster parents, including The National Voice of Foster Parents and Spaulding For Children. New parents benefit from connecting with more experienced foster parents who can offer advice and support to the entire family. Foster parents should take pride in knowing they're providing a safe and loving home to society's most defenseless citizens.
