What are the requirements to be licensed as a foster parent?
– Have a nurturing, loving home
– 25 years of age or older
– Single, married or unmarried couple living together at least 1 year
– Medical Report completed
– 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 10 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. Introduction to DCS 2. Child Abuse & Neglect 3. Attachment, Discipline, Effects of care-giving on the family 4. Sexual Abuse 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 15 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. **For families interested in adopting, an additional (6) hours of training on adoption will be required. Other questions about foster parenting can be answered by the Foster Parent Coordinator at each office.
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