Foster Parenting
Help Change a Life - Become a Foster Parent
Foster Care is intended to be a short-term, temporary solution for children who the Juvenile Court has determined cannot stay in their homes.
All children have the same basic need to be a part of a family, and foster children are no different. When they are not able to return to their home they still need stability, nurturing, love, and a safe place to live.
It takes a special person to open their home and their heart to these children. The children come in all ages, and some have brothers and sisters who also need safe haven. The children are from all walks of life but they have one thing in common... they all need a place to call home.
Foster Children...
Need a family with understanding, flexibility, acceptance, humor, security, and lots of love.
Foster Parents...
Come from different ages, races, and income levels. Most are married, but some are single. Most have raised children, but others have not.
Foster Families...
Provide nurturing and caring for children, while supporting the child's self-worth and basic needs. They genuinely care about the well being of the children and their families.
Children enter foster care for a variety of reasons. However, each and every child needs the love and support of foster parents and families. Being a foster parent can be one of the most rewarding relationships you and your family have ever experienced.
What Can you Do?
Ask yourself...
- Can you show tolerance for misbehavior, accepting problems and not overreacting?
- Will you express reassurance over and over to a child?
- Are you comfortable setting limits and providing structure in a caring way?
And most important of all...
- Can you accept a child unconditionally?
If you answered "Yes" to these questions, you have the attributes of a successful foster parent.
Basic Requirements to become a Foster Parent
To qualify to be a Foster Parent, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must be 21 years of age or older
- Meet Pennsylvania state and local requirements for housing, safety, space, and equipment
- Accept the temporary nature of foster care, and be willing to help a child's transition back to his or her family, or to an adoption placement
- Demonstrate a non-punitive attitude and a level of acceptance toward the parents of a child in care
- Have good physical and mental health
- Work cooperatively with the representatives of Beaver County Children and Youth Services
- Exhibit the parental skills, attitude, and stamina to effectively deal with the behavior and feelings displayed by children and youth
If you are interested in becoming a Foster Parent, please Contact Us.