FAQ
- What is treatment foster care?
Sometimes referred to as therapeutic foster care, treatment foster care is a powerful model of care that combines the positive aspects of a nurturing and therapeutic family environment with active and structured treatment. Treatment Foster Care programs provide individualized and intensive treatment to address a child's emotional and behavioral problems.
- How does it differ from traditional foster care?
Traditional foster care serves a different set of children. This kind of care provides nurturing, safe, and custodial care for children who require placement outside of their family. The role of the foster parent is that of caregiver and nurturer. Treatment, if any, occurs outside of the foster home. Treatment foster care is active and structured and occurs in the foster family home.
- What are some of the challenges children face?
All foster children are affected by the separation from their family and sometimes this stress and worry shows up in their behavior. Some children will need extra amounts of understanding and patience in adapting to your family's routines. Young people in foster care may suffer from developmental delays, physical disability, depression, poor academic performance, low self-esteem and poor hygiene. It's important to remember that with the right foster home and the right services, children in the foster care system can often deal successfully with their challenges.
- How long do foster children stay in a foster home?
It depends on the particular child and the parent's situation. Every effort is made to reunite parents and children; sometimes a child may live with you for a few days or for several months. Many foster parents grow close to the children in their care. It can be difficult when they leave. Foster parents can and do adopt children that come into their lives through the foster care system.
- What are the basic requirements to be a foster parent?
You must be at least 21 years old, be financially self-supporting, and meet the qualifications usually necessary for working with children. There is a certification process that includes training and a home study. The quiz, "Is foster parenting right for me?" will help you figure out if becoming a foster parent makes sense for you now.
- Do I have to be married?
No. Singles, as well as couples, may become foster parents if they meet basic requirements for approval.
- Is there training?
Training is based on the PRIDE model and varies from four to eight weeks. Call the LFSVA office nearest you for information on the next training session.
- After I complete the training am I able to get a child?
Parents must first have a home study. An LFSVA services worker will visit your home and interview you and your family. This is an in-depth process that can take several visits.
- How long is the certification process?
The process of becoming a foster parent varies for each individual and can take between three and eight months. LFSVA works to create the best possible fit for your family and the child, so it is hard to say how quickly a child may be placed in your home.
- Do I receive financial support?
Foster parents receive between $1,100 and $3,000 of tax-free income a month. The stipend depends on the level of care, age, and special needs of each child. These funds are for child-care related costs such as food, clothing and housing. Foster children have their own medical and dental coverage.
