Becoming A Foster Parent

Becoming a foster parent is similar in process to becoming an adoptive parent. However, the end goals are very different. An adoptive and foster parent will be raising and caring for a child that is not biologically related to them. However, a foster parent raises a child for only as long as he or she is in the foster care system. This can range from a few months to over two years, depending on whether the child is waiting for adoption or reunion with his or her biological family.

Adoptive parents working with a public agency to adopt an older child may be asked to become a foster parent first. These parents will be placed with a legal risk child who is expected to be available for adoption soon. This also offers the advantage of allowing an adoptee and adoptive family to grow accustomed to one another and to see if an adoptive living situation would work.

Adults interested in becoming a foster parent or adopting through the foster care system should call their state agencies. Foster parents will usually need to complete a foster application, pass a home study, personal interview and home inspection, as well as a background and criminal history check. Foster parents need to be over the age of 21, provide character references, exhibit stability in their home and meet state licensing requirements. In some states, this may require foster parenting classes.