Foster Care FAQs
We're answering frequently asked questions about foster care.
Becoming a foster parent is a profound and life-changing decision, filled with both challenges and rewards. As you prayerfully consider opening your heart and home to a child in need, it’s natural to have many questions about the journey ahead. Whether you’re concerned about the requirements, the emotional impact, or how to navigate the system, this article will provide clarity and insight as you explore the possibility of fostering.
Becoming a foster parent is no small decision and, as you prayerfully consider this journey, many questions may come up.
Here are five frequently asked questions about becoming a foster parent – answered!
IF I AM SINGLE, CAN I BECOME A FOSTER PARENT?
Absolutely! Foster parents come from all different walks of life. From the single 22-year-old to the 70-year- old couple, if you are committed to children, you can be a foster parent. Plus, we guide you through every step of the journey! Becoming a single foster parent can be incredibly rewarding.
CAN FOSTER CHILDREN SHARE A ROOM?
The primary requirement is that there must be adequate space for the child and their belongings. However, the amount of space needed varies by state regulations. Consider the child’s comfort when making this decision. Most foster children are placed in one or two homes in their whole time as part of the system, but that doesn’t mean coming into a foreign environment is easy for them. Overall, your mission is to provide them with a loving safe space within the guidelines of their rights.
CAN I CHOOSE THE AGE I WOULD LIKE TO FOSTER?
Yes, while we cannot predict the ages of kids coming into care daily, there is always a wide age range. Once trained, our caseworkers will take the necessary time to get to know you and what age groups you would feel most comfortable with. When a child in that age group comes into care, you will be matched!
CAN I ADOPT A CHILD IN FOSTER CARE?
It depends on each child’s circumstances and the state where you live. If reunification with the biological family or relative is not possible, then yes. Becoming a foster parent means you can foster to adopt a child that comes into your care. There are almost 400,000 children in foster care, more than half of them will be reunified with their parents or primary caregivers. Nearly one-quarter of that will be adopted, many by their foster parents.
ARE ALL CHILDREN IN FOSTER CARE DIFFICULT?
When you think about it, every child in the foster care system has trauma regarding their former and current situations. The average age of a child in care is only 8 so they’re already undeveloped mentally. Their triggers and coping mechanisms and behaviors fill the void in their life, while they crave a parental figure.
As a foster parent, you step into that gap. Becoming the caring adult that gives them stability through things like counseling and routine. Which helps them develop new positive coping mechanisms. It takes time and commitment to patience, but you will see growth in them from your presence in their chaotic worlds.
ADVICE FROM BAIR FOSTER PARENTS
We asked several current foster parents’ what advice or encouragement they could give to anyone who is thinking about becoming a foster parent. Here’s what they had to say:
Trey Green:
“Just do it. If you just keep thinking about it and putting it off and trying to find the right time… there will never be a right time, so just do it.”
Wanick Fayette:
“Do it with an open mind. There are no manuals to it, but are you willing to do life with these children to impact them forever? Whether they’re in your house for a day, a month, or a year, you will impact their lives.”
Hollianne Higdon:
“I didn’t realize how much I would love foster care until I did it. They say your heart grows [when you have children] and it’s just as true with foster care. When you walk in the door, you’re my kid.”
The journey of being a foster parent shouldn’t be taken lightly. We are with you every step of the way, even if it’s just to answer questions. You are never alone in the process.
It’s also important to note that every state has different steps and requirements for legally fostering a child. Find a Bair location near you to learn about the services available.
Become a foster parent through The Bair Foundation.
Since 1967, The Bair Foundation has been committed to building strong children, strong families, and strong communities. It is through loving foster parents that children have a sense of belonging and a loving home.
We are doing all we can, but we can’t do it alone. The Bair Foundation is always seeking outstanding people to join our team. We will never stop fighting for the children who need someone to fight for them. Our children deserve a brighter future.
If you are interested in Becoming a Foster Parent, you can request no-obligation information about fostering through The Bair Foundation here and a team member will contact you directly.
Of the 23,000 children who age out of foster care each year, 20 percent become homeless.
Join us in our mission to help children in need before it’s too late.
Become a Foster parent