Foster Children
Foster children face a host of issues other kids don’t have to worry about. Foster parents stepping in to help them can best do so by knowing in advance the complications these children will likely face. Some challenges face virtually all foster kids – such as what to do when “aging out” of foster care. Others are specific to particular kids who may face medical obstacles ranging from common ailments to disabilities which would deeply affect any child’s life. By thinking about these things ahead of time, however, foster parents can help guide these children to better outcomes, and arm themselves with knowledge about how to best equip children under their care for the many challenges ahead.
- Aging Out of Foster Care
Once a foster child turns 18, he or she “ages out” of foster care. Learn about the challenges facing former foster children and the government’s efforts to assist recently emancipated young adults.
- Types of Foster Care
An overview of the two types of foster care: group homes and kinship care. Learn about the key differences between the two forms of care, the role each plays, and the recent expansion of kinship care.
- Medical Issues and Children with Disabilities
Foster children who suffer from medical issues or disabilities are dependent on the government for health services. In this section, you’ll find information on why foster children suffer high rates of physical or psychological problems, the medical treatment they receive, and more.
- Funding and Federal Programs
The federal government provides funding to the states to administer foster care, child welfare, and adoption programs. This section offers information on the sources of foster care funding and the relationship between federal and state governments.