What do foster parents have to do?
Foster parents provide a temporary, safe family setting for a child. Foster parents are involved in all aspects of the child’s life: school, therapy, social network and more. Foster parents work together with the child’s birth family, social workers and other professionals.
How long will a foster child stay in my home?
The average length of stay for a child in foster care is one to two years. This length is based on many things. Each case plans are reviewed regularly in court. Children will stay in foster care until their birth family is able to care for them again or until they are adopted.
Do the children have contact with their birth parents while in foster care?
Yes. Birth parents can visit and have contact with their children while they are in foster care. Rules for visits are set in Children’s Court. Foster parents are asked to support a child’s relationship with their birth family while they are in care. The best fostering situation is one in which everyone works together for the child.
Who are the children in foster care?
The children range from newborn to 21 years old. Many children in foster care are part of a sibling group. Children may have emotional, behavioral or physical needs related to trauma. Children are very strong. Foster families will receive training, information and referrals to community resources to help them support children in their care.
How long does the foster home licensing process take?
The licensing process takes about 90 to 120 days after your first visit with a licensing worker. During this time, you will fill out paperwork, be interviewed, do trainings and set up your home. The length of the process is based on how fast you finish these steps.
What are the training requirements for General Foster Care?
Training is a very important part of becoming a foster parent. Training will begin after you send in an application. Your licensing worker will help you set up the trainings you need. General foster parents must finish six hours of training. After getting your license, you will do 30 hours of Foundations Trainings. These will give you the skills and knowledge you need to meet the needs of children in foster care.
What if I’m not in perfect health?
All foster and adoptive parents are required to complete a medical exam. You can have a mental or physical health condition and be a foster parent. You will need a note from your doctor that the condition is under control with medication or treatment. If you have a health issue that would make it hard to parent a child, you and your doctor should decide if you are able to foster a child.
What are the costs of foster care?
There is no cost to become a licensed foster parent. Foster parents receive a monthly payment to help meet the child’s needs. Daycare costs are covered by the state of Wisconsin. Medical and dental expenses are covered by the child’s Medicaid (state medical insurance).