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According to the United States Children’s Bureau’s report, on any given day, the United States has approximately 443,000 children in foster care. Being a foster parent is rewarding both for the caregiver and child. You get to make a difference in a child’s life, and they get a familial bond. Becoming a foster parent involves planning and paperwork. Read on if you are interested in becoming a foster parent and want to learn how.

Know Your State’s Laws

Typically, the state administers the foster care process; each state has its own regulations regarding foster parenting. Make sure you know what is required to be a foster parent in your state.

Know What Makes a Good Foster Parent

Some of the things that will make you an outstanding foster parent include being a team player with the welfare worker and your family, personal maturity and family stability, and being a constant advocate for children.

Complete a Pre-Service Parent Training Class

A parent training class will educate you on some of the unique challenges foster children face. Some classes run for as long as 10 weeks and are often scheduled at times that work for parents working 9 to 5 jobs.

Apply and Meet Your Caseworker

You will meet your caseworker after you complete the screening and training required by the state. Be honest with the caseworker about why you want to be a foster parent. Some caseworkers will also want to do a home study. They will inform you about the placement process so you will know when you can expect to be matched with a child.

The United States needs all types of foster parents. You don’t have to be a stay-at-home parent, married, young, or have children to be a foster parent. If you are interested in becoming a foster parent and have any questions, feel free to contact us today.