
In this video explains how to know if foster parenting is right for you.
Deciding If Fostering a Child Is Right For You
The main thing to think about when considering becoming a foster parent is, do you have the desire and drive to help children in need? While it may seem obvious, having a passion for helping others, specifically children, is vitally important when deciding to become a foster parent. This desire can help you to refocus on "why you're doing this" when the process gets challenging.
Besides your inclination for helping children in need, it's important that you have the correct support systems in place. Being a parent or foster parent is a full-time job. They say "it takes a village" and raising a foster child is no different. Foster children often have many appointments, so having a support network that can help you during the process is essential. These support systems can be a spouse, a family member, neighbor or even foster parent support groups in your local community. Knowing you are not alone in this journey can make it much smoother and more enjoyable for everyone involved.
The main goal of foster care is reunification. This can be an emotionally challenging process for foster parents. Understanding before you begin that reunifying children with their parents is the ultimate goal, you can mentally prepare yourself for that inevitability. While there are children in foster care that become "legally free" and eligible for adoption, this is not always the case.