What are the requirements to be licensed as a foster parent?
– Have a nurturing, loving home
– 25 years of age or older
– Single or married
– Physical examination including TB test
– 4 references
– Extensive background checks, including fingerprinting
– First Aid/CPR/Universal precautions certification
– Pass a home inspection
– Open your home for several visits by a Foster Parent Coordinator during the licensing and homestudy process
– Complete 20 hours of Initial Training
What type of training will I receive to become a foster parent?
Through fall and spring Initial Training classes, future foster parents will learn about the foster care system by attending a mandatory course that addresses these topics: 1. Orientation/Overview of Foster/Adoptive/Kinship Care
2. Teambuilding
3. Family Systems: Abuse and Neglect
4. Impact of Abuse & Neglect on Child Development
5. Attachment, Separation, and Placement
6. Discipline
7. Cultural Issues in Placement
8. Primary Families
9. Sexual Abuse
10. Effects of Care-Giving on the Family After licensing, will I be required to attend any other training?
Through On-going Training, foster parents will continue to improve their parenting skills, keep their own motivation at a positive level, and receive and give support. Families are required to earn 20 hours of On-going Training annually to keep their license in good standing. What can I expect when a child enters my home?
Regional Youth Services prides itself on the support it gives to its families. Foster parents will work with a Regional Youth Service's therapists to best meet the needs of children placed in their home. Families meet with the therapist on a weekly basis either at the office or in the foster home setting. Agency staff is on call 24 hours a day for emergency situations. Other questions about foster parenting can be answered by the Foster Parent Coordinator at each office.
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