Thinking of becoming a foster parent!

Foster care, is it for you? Being a foster child many years ago has allowed me to comment on this situation from the other side. As a 10 yr old child going into another home to live, "for me" to feel comfortable, in the new foster home, was the best thing a foster home or parent could provide. You as the foster child, do not know how long you will be in the home. If your thinking about being a Foster parent, just keep in mind these are children we are talking about and I am not sure how much the state pays you to take in children but if you are applying just for the money I suggest you find another carreer. Your job as a foster parent is to provide a temporary home and monitor the child or children until a stable situation arises for them. If you are someone that gets emotionally attached to easily then being a foster parent may not be the right job for you. If you like children, have an open mind, and have alot of patience; you may want to consider being a foster parent. If you are a stay at home mother or dad this is a great quality for a foster parent. Do you have qualities, skills, hobbies, you would like to share with someone? If so,this is also a great quality for a foster parent. As an example, I was lucky to get the foster parents I did as they opened me up to new ideas and ways of life, like making my own clothes, horseback riding, and building airplanes. I know today what it takes to live with other children, whom I was not related, and get along, and also to live with those children with special needs. All those experiences thrilled, challenged and enlightened me and are part of who I am today! You as a foster parent provide a new way of life, a stable environment, and an outlet, for the time being, no matter how long, at your home for the child or children. Remember, Children come from every belief system, have all kinds of experiences you may not, and its important for them to be able to express these individualities so that they get feed back and can grow from that feedback,while at your home. Its very important to stay positive and provide TLC for the foster child and you may change a child's life for the better!
To get the most accurate details on applying for a foster care license, contact your local social services office. There usually is a background check and home inspection and you will be monitored by the state as long as you carry the license. Every state has their own laws but usually two parents are looked for when applying for a foster care home license.