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1. Are foster children allowed to drive?

Foster children are allowed to earn their driving permits and license.  However, it is required to have approval from the child's caseworker and supervisor.

2. Can a foster child see my family physician?

Foster children can see any physician that accepts Medicaid.

3. Can I home-school a foster child?

No, foster children are required to attend public school.  If you adopt a child, once the adoption is finalized, you are free to home-school that child.

4. Can I travel out of state with a foster child in my care?

Yes.  Foster parents are required to get permission from birth parents  to travel out of state.  If birth parents decline permission, the County  can request that a judge make a decision as to what is in the best  interest of the child(ren).

5. Do I need to add a foster or adoptive child to my health insurance?

Foster children will receive full medical coverage through Medicaid.   You cannot add a foster child to your health insurance plan.  Once an  adoption has finalized you can add your adopted child to your health  insurance plan.  Some children qualify for continued medical coverage by  Medicaid until the age of 18 and your health insurance can be utilized  to supplement the Medicaid coverage.

6. How long will a foster child be part of my family?

The length of a child's stay in your home is dependent on the complexity of the family's circumstances - sometimes it takes only days, other  times it may be months or even years.

7. What is respite care?

Respite care is overnight care of a foster child provided by another certified foster family.

8. Will a foster child attend a school in my district?

In order to preserve their social and academic stability, a youth will typically not be moved to a different school district when they enter into foster care. We will provide as much information about a child’s school / transportation needs as possible prior to you accepting placement of that child, so you can determine if your family is able to accommodate.

9. Will a foster parent meet a child's birth parents?

Absolutely; building a positive rapport with birth family members  significantly contributes to the wellbeing of the child.  The child will  feel more comfortable knowing the adults in their life are working  together and it helps to prevent loyalty issues.