State policy is to place children in the least restrictive, most family-like setting which meets the child's needs. When possible, a child is placed in close proximity to the child's family, particularly when reunification with the family is the case plan goal. Foster parents are a valuable resource for families and children. Their work is extremely difficult, knowing that they are working to help reunite a child with a biological parent, or care for a child until that child is adopted. Prospective foster parents receive at least 20 hours of pre-service training prior to being licensed.
Training includes everything from first aid to behavior management.
Foster parents work with child care professionals to develop a case plan for their foster child and work with the child's biological or adoptive family. Visit the Connect for Kids website to learn more about foster care.