Many a time we come across a child whose parents do not think in the best of the interests for him or her. This could be for any number of reasons and the child could be subjected to physical or sexual abuse, or, in certain circumstances, abandoned. This is where foster care steps in. The U.S. Foster Care System takes care of such children who might later enter the waiting lists of adoption. Alternatively, there are also some foster families.
Foster families are those that choose to provide the child a temporary home and family, a haven of safety in a time of crisis. While these families volunteer to do such work, it is essential for them to fulfill certain requirements prior to committing themselves. A foster parent has to be at least 21 years of age. The parent must not have an alcoholic or drug problem. The prospective foster parents are run through a criminal background check, which they must clear. Under no circumstances can they have a history of child abuse!
State laws do provide for financial assistance for the foster families. However, it is essential for them to prove that the current needs of the family are provided for, without any external financial assistance. Spatially too, the house should allow for the easy accommodation of another member in the family.
One must remember that the foster family does not form a passive appendage for the child, responsible solely for his basic needs. Instead they have to be the child’s alternate support system, helping him to deal with the situation emotionally as well. The family also participates and interacts with the child’s social worker, doctor and the teachers.
Before you take responsibility for another human being, it’s important to cross-examine yourself on certain counts. Can you accept a child and provide it with the same love as you do to your own kids? Would your family be able to create an environment of permanence, when the very context of the stay is temporary? Would you be willing to accept the child completely, overlooking his background? It is natural for a child to be hesitant initially and not reciprocate your affection. Such drawbacks should be overlooked as one can overcome these with time. You must also adopt an accepting attitude towards the parent though the parent might be the chief reason for the child’s problems. Finally, you must always be prepared to let go.
Sometimes, the birth family is adjudged to be unsuitable for the child irrevocably. A foster-adopt family can then foster the child till the biological parents legally terminate their parental rights. Subsequent to that, the foster family can adopt the child providing him not only the basic amenities but also the care and emotional support he longs for.
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