What Is Foster Parent Training?

Becoming a foster parent is a big deal to the kids that are taken in. When you become a foster parent, you are responsible for the children under your care. Because of this, there is training that needs to be completed before you become a licensed foster parent.

What Is a Foster Parent?

A foster parent is someone who has gone through adequate training to temporarily take in a child or children from the foster care system. The children taken in are generally children who are waiting to be adopted and find their forever family. It is also possible to foster children while you are in the process of trying to adopt them. 

Foster Parent Training

Training to become a foster parent will vary depending on the state you reside in. 

Preservice Training for New Foster Parents

Preservice training is required to become a foster parent. This training course is roughly 39 hours long and will be completed in sessions. During this step, you should also complete your application to apply for a foster parent license.

During this training course, you will learn about some of the following:

• How to de-escalate behaviors or crises
• How to manage a child who has been abused
• How to handle cultural issues
• How to handle potential triggers for children
• How to recognize maltreatment
• How to care for children's mental health

It is also required for foster parents to be certified in CPR and first aid. 

Ongoing Foster Parent Training for Licensed Foster Parents

Training for licensed foster parents will also vary by the state you reside in. Recertification training is about 12 hours per year to 20 hours per year depending on the state you live in. This training is required if you desire to keep your foster parent license. If this license expires, you will most likely be required to go through the preservice training process all over again. 

CPR and first aid certifications should have been received before becoming a licensed foster parent. These certifications need to be kept up to date to renew their foster parent license. The certification period for these will vary. 

Where Can You Receive Foster Parent Training?

Foster parent training can be received through the adoption agency of your choice. You can choose which agency you would like to work with, and they will provide the training needed to get you on the path to fostering. There are always additional training resources you can find online. You can also inquire with the agency about additional training and resources.