Foster
Parenting
Foster
Care and Adoption Unit - The primary function for Foster Care
and Adoption Social Workers is to locate, recruit, train, license,
provide services and supports for Foster Caregivers and Adoptive
Families. Equally important is the matching of children who
need foster or adoptive placement with the caregivers most able
to meet the child's needs. Adoption Social Workers utilize the
'Child Study' provided by the Ongoing Social Worker and an Adoption
Matching Tool in the matching process of all adoptive placements.
Foster Care and Adoption Social Workers work
directly with children who are in Children Services Permanent
Custody to help them become ready for, transition to, and
successfully adapt in their new adoptive home. When foster
children are sixteen years or older Foster Care Social Workers
work with them to learn independent living skills for when
they emancipate.
What is Foster Parenting?: Common
Questions
Foster
parenting is making a commitment to caring for a child until
his or her parent can resume this responsibility or until
a permanent home is found.
Who
are the children needing foster care?
Children
whose families have suffered a major crisis are the ones in
need. Children are separated from parents due to physical
abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, abandonment, or for the child's
emotional and behavioral problems.
What
can I expect as a foster parent?
There
are many rewards to foster parenting. One reward is having
the chance to help children feel good about themselves. Another
is making a difference in a child's life. Also, you will know
that you are protecting a child from abuse or neglect.
All
children need safe, stable families in which to grow. For
some children who are abused and neglected, this may mean
a foster or adoptive family. In Ohio there are more than 16,000
children in foster care. Foster parents love, guide, and nurture
children. All types of foster parents are needed. Ohio especially
needs those who can care for teenagers, sibling groups, and
medically fragile children.
Qualities
of a Foster Parent
• Foster Parents are adults 21 years or older
• Homeowners or renters
• Stable family relationships
• Able to listen without judging
• Willing to make changes in their own lives for the
benefit of others
• Can recognize that a sense of humor can go a long
way, even in a crisis
• Willing to work with others
• Married or single
• Can provide for their own family's financial needs
Foster Parents are special people with a special
job.
• They find a place in their hearts and in their homes
for a child in need.
• They work as part of a team with the child's best
interests in mind.
• They accept the responsibility of caring for a foster
child.
Ross County Children Services offers a wide range of supportive
services to all foster families. The foster care and adoption
staff boasts an experienced staff. There are also ongoing
training opportunities as well as regular support group meetings.
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