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Published by Programme B
Loving children is one thing and taking care of them is another thing. Well, loving children is not enough to become a foster carer. You need to check on other factors before deciding to become a foster parent. Fostering can be a good solution if you want to test out the waters before going to one of the private adoption agencies in your area and adopting a child. Unlike adoption, which is more permanent and shoulders you with full responsibility, fostering is short-term; generally speaking, a foster period can be as short as 18 months and as long as 5 years.
Many do not know if they are making the right decision when it comes to fostering. You need to have a strong commitment if you want to become a carer. At the same time, this responsibility is not something that you need to be scared of as long as you have the will and means to foster a child.
Here are some things that you need to consider before you plan on becoming a foster parent.
Earn The License
It is vital for you to first apply for a license before fostering a child. The requirements are not the same in all the states. Hence you need to check the conditions and see if you can meet them.
Some laws require you to have the necessary training first before you apply for a license. You need to be at least 21 years of age or older if you want to become a carer. There should be sufficient space or rooms in your house. If you do not have adequate space in your home, fostering might not be an option for you. Also, it is important for you to have good health and mental stability. Only then you will be ready to take up this challenge or role.
It is also crucial for you to be a law-abiding citizen. It does not matter if you are single or married as long as you meet the criteria that are listed above.
Balance Your Family Life
Things can become tough if you are already married and have children of your own. Hence, you need to discuss with your spouse to see if it is the right decision that you are going to take. Talk with your kids about your plans to become a foster carer.
You need to get assurance from them that they are going to support you in this endeavor. Do not take this decision in a hurry or without consulting with your family. Their support is necessary if you want to become successful. Your children might require most of your time.
It is crucial for you to see how you are going to integrate the new kids into your family. All said and done, he or she should feel comfortable staying at home. They should not feel neglected. Discuss with your spouse and family about how you are going to help the new kids that will come to your house. If you think you can do it with ease, you need to proceed forward.
Not Everyone Will Support Your Decision
You should proceed forward only if you do not worry much about what others will think about you. If you are a person who does not like to gain too much attention in the public eye, you should refrain from taking up this role.
It is vital for you to know that people are going to talk about you and might even discourage you. But, if you have a strong conviction that you are doing the right thing, proceed forward. Have your reasons ready so that you can thwart all the negative comments that come your way.
Challenges Are Unique
Every child is different and as such their problems are going to be unique. Most of the children that come into foster care are neglected and have undergone physical or emotional abuse. They might not be that expressive about their needs or requirements.
It is essential for you to be easy to approach and proactively do things for them. It is all about making them feel comfortable at home. You can become successful as a foster carer if you are one who has empathy for children under your care.
It Is Not A Burden
You are right. It is not going to be a burden to take care of foster children. Usually, foster agencies give the carers a good amount of money every month to take care of the children that are with them. Foster kids have dental and health insurance in place. You do not have to spend any money from your pocket. Some additional support groups provide extra funds to the kids that are under your supervision depending on the need.
Photo by Sharon McCutcheon from Pexels