Legal Definitions - foster parent

A foster parent is an adult who is licensed by the state to take care of a child who has been removed from their home due to abuse, neglect, or the inability of their parent or guardian to provide adequate care. Foster parents provide temporary care for the child until they can be reunited with their biological family or placed with a permanent family.

For example, if a child is removed from their home because their parent is struggling with addiction, a foster parent may take care of the child until the parent is able to get the help they need to provide a safe and stable home for their child.

Foster parents must meet certain qualifications to become licensed, such as being at least 21 years old, financially stable, and having a home with enough space for a child. They must also pass a criminal background check and complete any required training related to caring for a foster child.

It's important for foster parents to remember that their placement of the child is temporary and to work with child welfare workers and other providers to ensure the child's well-being. Foster parents should also avoid speaking negatively about the child's biological parents.

Some foster parents may choose to adopt their foster child, which legally makes the child a part of their family and severs their legal relationship with their biological family.

For example, if a foster child is unable to be reunited with their biological family, a foster parent may choose to adopt the child and provide them with a permanent home.