When first starting out on their journey in foster care, new foster parents have a lot of questions. This is totally normal. Even with advanced foster training, a lot of the foster care process is a learning experience. One of the most common questions people have is whether or not they will get to choose their foster placement.

Can You Choose Your Foster Placement?

The answer to this question isn’t a simple yes or no. In fact, it’s a little bit of both. Let’s explain.

When your social worker has a placement case, you’ll receive a phone call. You may be the first phone call or you may be further down on their list, depending on the situation. Likely, you will be high up on the list if you don’t already have a foster placement since many foster homes are already filled.

When you receive your phone call, you will receive basic information about the potential foster child or children that the social worker needs to place. Basic information you might be given includes how many children need a foster placement, how old they are, and what their genders are. You may ask for additional information if you feel necessary.

Based on the information you’re given, you get to decide whether or not you will accept the foster placement. The social worker will not force you to accept a placement, nor will they unexpectedly drop off a placement without contacting you ahead of time.

Conclusion

Although you choose to receive foster placements, your choices are children your social worker needs to place. Your placement can happen immediately or it can take several months to find a foster placement that best suits your unique situation.

For more information on fostering or to start the process of becoming a foster parent, contact us today.