Being A Foster Parent: Things You Need To Know
To be loved unconditionally, to live
in a home that is healthy, to have enough protection and security are some of
the rights that each and every child deserves. However, not every child is
blessed enough to have all this. There are many children who suffer from
malnutrition, physical, emotional and sexual abuse, addictions, and neglect.
This happens within their
own homes most of the time. Children who are rejected by the very own people
who are supposed to love and care for them, their parents, are increasing every
day.
Perhaps you are thinking of ways to
provide care and support to children who suffer and are in need. One of the
best ways to do it is to be a foster parent. There is no better way than foster
care to transform the lives of a child who has undergone through a lot of
neglect and abuse.
Besides, you are also working towards
the overall wellbeing of the child and investing in them to secure their
future. Though not an easy decision becoming a foster parent is one of the most
rewarding ones you will ever make. Fostering a child also help you become a
better person.
According to Lisa Witter from Perpetual Fostering, applicants
hoping to become foster carers need to be financially stable. Carers cannot
have bankruptcy as part of their record. A license or approval from the
authorities is necessary to be a foster parent. What are some of the things to
remember before becoming a foster parent?
Be
Realistic: They Are Normal Kids Coming From Difficult Or Unstable Homes
Most people think that foster kids
are extremely difficult to care for as they are severely damaged coming from
misfortunate circumstances. Unless an exceptional case, most of them are normal
kids who have been put up for foster care due to neglect and abuse within their
homes. Depending on the severity of the trauma they had to face and their age
they are likely to display behavioral and emotional problems.
Financial
Stability
Keep in mind that foster care is not
a way to make money so it’s important that you are financially stable. You
don’t have to be wealthy or own your own home to be a foster parent. However,
you need to be secure financially because all the expenses incurred on the
child may not be reimbursed always.
You Need
Support
Whether it is by the social worker,
neighbor or a teacher you are always being watched when you care for a foster child. To make
sure that you are able to give proper care to your foster child you always
require help and support from others. Help should be readily available in case
you fall sick or have to work during odd hours.
To provide a temporary home that is
stable and secure for children requires commitment, willingness, and hard work
from the part of the carer. You also need to be well trained and flexible to
make the journey easier.