We’re excited to release a new, free resource: Checklist for New Foster Parents: Prepare Your Home and Family.
We understand that the process of becoming a foster parent seems daunting, especially if you don’t know where to begin or what’s required. Inside our new resource, you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions about the process of becoming a foster parent, along with handy, interactive checklists that offer you clear information about how to prepare your home and your family to foster a child.
Taking care of a foster child isn’t all that different from taking care of a typical child, but there are some special considerations. Foster parents who take the time to prepare and develop clear expectations ensure better experiences for their family and the children they foster.
Inside, you’ll take the first step to prepare by filling out our simple checklists.
Download your copy of Checklist for New Foster Parents: Prepare Your Home and Family.
Want a preview of what’s inside? Here’s an example of what you’ll find, along with one of the checklists.
What To Expect Your First Week
Your first week as a foster parent may feel intimidating, exciting, and even overwhelming all at once. But it isn't as scary as you might think, especially if you know what's coming.
Within the first week are several opportunities to learn more about your child and foster connections with their parents. Examples include medical appointments, Family Team Decision Meetings (FTDMs), and Family Connections meetings.
You should also expect a whirlwind of emotions, including anxiety and fear. These feelings are completely normal, but there's more to discover. Because when you foster, you create an opportunity to make a connection with a child that's unlike any other.
Having clear expectations is important because it reflects your efforts to adequately prepare. When foster parents are prepared, it translates into better experiences for foster parents, children, and their families.
To help you prepare, we’ve created two checklists: one for your home and one for your family.
Ready to find out more about the process of becoming a foster parent? Download your checklist now: Checklist for New Foster Parents: Prepare Your Home and Family.
