Do I have a say in the child(ren) placed in my home?

Yes, Aspiranet works with each family to determine who they believe they can best care for in their home. Its important to remember that the majority of foster children are teenagers or siblings who sometimes have medical, emotional or mental health needs. A foster parent has the greatest chance of making an impact in a child’s life when they are open to bringing a variety of children into their home.

How long does it take to become an Aspiranet foster parent?

It typically takes a family between three and six months to become an Aspiranet foster parent. The time can vary depending on how quickly a family completes the requirements.

Can anyone be an Aspiranet foster parent?

Aspiranet encourages you to consider becoming a foster parent. And there are certain requirements that all families must meet prior to becoming a foster parent. An example of these requirements are: financially self sufficient, have adequate bedroom space and meet all state required criminal clearances. Aspiranet staff work closely with each family to assist them in completing the steps towards becoming foster parents.

Would a child’s family be involved while a child was living in my home?

Yes in most circumstances a child’s family remains involved with their child while they are in foster care. The first priority for most children in foster care is to be safely reunified with their families. For most children in foster care their families improve their situation and they can return home. Regular contact with their families is important. Foster parents have a big role in supporting a child’s connection with their family. Involvement between a child and their families is most often through regular visits. Aspiranet staff will work with foster parents on their role in supporting a child’s connection with their family.

How will Aspiranet help me if I have a child with difficult behaviors?

Many of the children in foster care come with special medical, emotional or behavioral needs. When a child is placed with your family, Aspiranet shares all information available regarding the needs, behaviors and habits of the child. The Aspiranet Social Worker works with foster parent and other adults involved with the child in determining the needs of each child and then helps the group in developing a plan that best addresses those needs. Some children need additional services and support and the Aspiranet Social Worker will work with each family and child to identifying and secure other services.

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