Foster Parenting Facts: What You Need To Know Before Your Become A Foster Parent
If you love children, it is only natural to want to become a foster parent, welcome children into your home, and shower them with the love they need. However, even if you have children of your own and are a pro at parenting, foster parenting presents unique challenges you need to be prepared for. Understanding the reality of foster parenting will help you know what to expect before you begin the process to be a foster parent.
There is always an adjustment period
Once you become qualified to be a foster parent, placements can happen suddenly and unexpectedly. Children who need foster care are often caught up in urgent situations where they need to be placed with a family quickly. When you become a foster parent, life disruptions will become a part of your life.
The first weeks following a child placement are not easy. The child needs time to adapt to new surroundings, and you need time to bond with the child. Foster parents must be able to walk through these transitions with patience and understanding.
Foster parenting is filled with uncertainties
Foster children may be with you for days, weeks, months, or years. It is never easy to get attached to a child only to learn they are being placed back in their home. It is imperative that foster parents be prepared for a child leaving at any moment.
Foster parenting is a family affair
If you have children of your own and other family members who live with you, they must be on board with your decision to foster parent, as it will affect their lives as well. Discussing your plans to foster children should be a top priority prior to going through the training process.
Does your family have healthy relationships? Bringing a foster child into a troubled home is best avoided, as many of these children have already experienced trauma of some sort. Family conflicts should be addressed and dealt with prior to becoming foster parents.
Foster parenting is a rewarding experience and can be one of the most positive things you do in life. Deciding to proceed with the steps to become a foster parent is a big decision that should never be taken lightly. Taking an honest look at the realities of foster parenting will help you prepare for your new and exciting role as a foster parent.
To learn more about how to become a foster parent, contact a local organization.