Question for foster parents....

jmoka7

I was wondering what kind of questions I should ask when I get my first phone call for a placement. I don't want to say yes just based off of the child's age.

wille2b

how many visits per week

any health concerns/behavior concerns

where are they now? can you speak with shelter family about routines?

thats pretty much all we ask i think, after your first few calls you will get the hang of what things you want to ask but these are basic simple things you would want to know!! good luck

Foster1Mom

If they are currently in care why are they being moved?

Siblings ? 

 

cadgirl

We actually just had another child placed with us on Friday.  We said yes, and then later suddenly realized the implications of it with additional parenting time, not knowing much about the case, etc.  We especially forgot about the parenting times and how that would impact us with our schedule and current parenting times for our other placements.  So I came up with this list and have it saved on the computer for the future.

Age/Gender/Race/Name
Siblings
Reason for removal
First time in care?
If drugs ? Withdraw symptoms?
If with previous foster family, reason for new placement location
Can I talk with previous foster parents?
Behavior
Parenting times/days
Transportation to and from parenting time
Anticipated longevity of placement

jmoka7

Thanks everyone! These are great!

elissaann26

Below are our questions.  And here is the post where I discussed them if you are interested.

Although I will say that we NEVER had this list available when we got "the call".  But for the call that we did end up saying "yes" to, we ran back to the computer so that we could make sure we had all of the info we needed and weren't making the decision completely with our gut.

What is the age/race/gender?

What was the reason for coming into care?

Are they any signs of physical or sexual abuse?

Were relatives considered for the placement?

What is the expected time in care?

Are they new to care?  If not, how long have they been in care?  How many previous foster home were there?  Why did they leave these homes?

Are there any known behaviors or therapies?

Are there health concerns, medical diagnoses or developmental delays?

Are there any allergies?

Are there any siblings?  If so, where are they?

Is the birth mom pregnant?

Speak/Understand English?

How soon do you need placement?  

 

Courtneyluff

I am so glad you asked! I'm stealing everyone's answers so I don't have to ask the same question later.