Tips For Getting Ready To Become A Foster Family
If you have decided that you want to become a foster family for a single child or possibly several children, you will want to take time to prepare for the process. Take a few moments to review the following tips so that you will have an easy time transitioning into this new way of life.
Get A Bedroom Ready
Sure, a foster agency can give you time to get a bedroom in order before they place any children with you, but you can really speed up the process by getting this part done as soon as possible. The main things that you are going to need for this room are a bed, dresser, and a place where the child can store toys or other personal belongings. You might want to add a small shelving unit, a toy box, or some shelves in a closet so that there are plenty of storage options. You will also need to decide whether you are looking to foster an infant, toddler, or an older child, as this will determine the type of bed that you need to put in the room.
Attend A Few Family Counseling Sessions
It is important to make sure that the entire family is well aware of the changes that are about to take place. Even though this can be a very positive experience for everyone involved, there may still be some adjustments to consider. Therefore, attending a few family counseling sessions is important. This gives everyone in the family the chance to discuss any concerns or questions that they might have before any foster children arrive. Just make sure that you are scheduling your appointments with a counselor that has a lot of experience with foster families.
Consider If Adoption Would Ever Be An Option
If you have thought about adopting a child, but would like to foster a few first, you will want to really think this through. This way, if this does seem to be a real possibility for you, you will then know to discuss this during some of your initial interviews with the foster agency. By doing this, the agency will be able to focus on placing you with children that might be more of a perfect fit as a permanent addition to your family, should it work out that way. For example, some people would prefer to adopt older children while others would prefer younger children.
With those few tips in mind, you should have no trouble making sure that you are getting yourself, your family, and your home ready to become a foster family. For more information, contact an agency like Braley & Thompson Inc.