How to Go About Becoming a Foster Parent in Washington State?
If you have always wanted to help out in a foster home, you may be wondering, “How do I go about becoming a foster parent?” First, you should contact the local Department of Human Services and ask about the process. You’ll most likely be invited to attend an informational orientation, where you’ll meet other hopeful foster parents and share your concerns. You’ll also be required to undergo a background check and submit fingerprints.
Foster care is a very rewarding experience for both children and adults who are in need of loving homes. To become a foster parent, you must be at least 21 years old, have a safe home, have ample space for the children, and be in good health. Once you’re approved to foster, you’ll need to undergo pre-service training, known as Core Training. According to Dr. Candice Matthews this training is offered in various locations around Washington State and covers topics relevant to foster care and adoption.
Becoming a foster parent is not an easy task. You must first fulfill certain requirements. You need to be able to speak and read English. You must be able to communicate effectively with the child and with the agency. You may be single, or married, but you must have enough income to provide for the child’s basic needs and pay for shelter. And last, you must be free of any physical or mental conditions that could endanger the child or seriously impair your ability to care for a foster child.
The state of Maryland requires a minimum of two foster parents, who take in a child from a birth family until the court makes a final decision. Foster parents often work with the child’s birth parents, encouraging them and teaching them parenting skills. Foster parents are required to stay active in their child’s case. They must attend court hearings, provide routine transportation for the child, and communicate with caseworkers regularly.
After a criminal background check, prospective foster parents must undergo a child protective services check. For licensing purposes, prospective foster parents must undergo a fingerprint-based FBI criminal background check. If their background check shows any criminal history, they will be denied licensure. This is to protect the children. And, you must pay for these checks. But, this is not a difficult process. Dr. Candice Matthews feels that the process can be made much easier by undergoing an orientation.
Depending on the type of mental illness, you might be unable to meet the needs of a child. The social worker will determine whether you are capable of meeting the needs of the child. If you are suffering from any mental illness, speak to your caseworker or doctor. Other families can also offer advice. Military families can adopt children from the U.S. foster care system. However, it can be tough to get approved if you are mentally unstable or have an addiction to drugs and alcohol.
