What to Do While Waiting for a Foster Placement

Nov 5, 2024

Waiting to welcome a child in care into your home can come with a mix of excitement, nervousness, and anticipation.

You've made the big decision to become a foster parent, completed your training, and now... you wait. But this waiting period isn't just about marking days off a calendar. It's a valuable time to prepare, learn, and grow.

Every foster care experience is different, but one thing is certain - the child who comes into your care will benefit from the thought and preparation you put in now.

It's just like Bill Ewolt, a foster parent in Maryland, talks about in his letter to his child in care:

"I want you to understand that my commitment to you goes beyond words. I am here to support you, to listen to you, and to fight for you every step of the way."

Your adventure in changing a child's life for the better is just beginning!

Understanding the Foster Placement Waiting Period

Foster care organizations have a big job to do. They're working hard to make sure each child finds a home where they'll be safe, cared for, and supported.

During this time, social workers are carefully reviewing files, considering the needs of the children in care, and looking at the strengths of different foster families. They're trying to find the best fit for everyone involved.

For example, consider children in therapeutic care - they need someone special to look after their specific needs.

This careful matching process takes patience, but it's about creating the best possible outcomes for kids who've been through tough times.

The wait also gives you a chance to get really prepared - both practically and emotionally. It's a time to set up your home, learn more about fostering, and get your heart ready for this big change.

How Long Does it Take to Receive a Foster Placement?

The waiting period for a foster placement can vary quite a bit.

For some families, it might be just a few weeks. For others, it could stretch to several months. The wait time depends on a variety of factors, such as the needs in your area, the age range you're open to, and how flexible you can be.

If you're curious about anything during this time, it's okay to reach out to your caseworker now and then to check in. They can give you updates and maybe even some tips on what you can do while you wait.

Remember to not let the wait get you down -- good things are worth waiting for!

Things to Do While Waiting for a Foster Placement

The waiting period is a perfect time to get ready for the amazing journey ahead.

There's plenty you can do to prepare yourself, your family, and your home for the arrival of a child in care. This preparation isn't just about buying things or rearranging furniture - it's also about getting your heart and mind ready for the joys of fostering.

1. Preparing Your Home

Preparing your home for a child in care is an exciting step in your journey. To become a foster parent in the first place, your home needs to pass a home study that covers many safety basics.

But we're talking about going above and beyond!

Start by creating a welcoming space that feels safe and cozy. This could mean setting up a bedroom with a comfortable bed, some warm blankets, and a nightlight.

On top of that, think about other bedroom niceties - posters, dressers, and even themed bed sheets could be fantastic additions!

Foster parents don't need to be perfect, and you don't need to create a perfect space. What matters most is that your home is safe, comfortable, and ready to welcome a child with open arms.

Erin Page-Brown, a former foster and adoptive parent, touches on the idea of perfection in fostering:

"We're not looking for perfection. We want foster families who have a story. We want foster families who have achieved things. We want foster families who are down to earth and understand that people make mistakes."

Watch the video above to learn more about Erin's captivating story!

A child in foster care may arrive with very few personal belongings, so having some basics on hand can help them feel more at home.

2. Get Clothes and Personal Care Items

Next, think about stocking up on essentials. Consider having a variety of clothing sizes, personal care items, and age-appropriate toys or books.

Every child is different, so try to have options suitable for various ages and preferences. Teens likely need different items than younger children.

3. Stocking Up on Non-Perishable Snacks and Easy Meals

It's also a good idea to have some non-perishable snacks and easy-to-prepare meals ready.

If you know your child's likes and dislikes, simply having some of their favorite snacks on-hand can go a long way toward making them feel more comfortable!

4. Strengthen Your Support Network

While you're getting ready to welcome a child in care, don't forget about your own needs.

Think about building a support network.

Reach out to friends, family, or other foster parents

Having people you can talk to, ask for advice, or just share your feelings with can make a huge difference.

Join local foster parent groups or online communities

These individuals understand what you're going through and can offer great tips and encouragement. In addition to helping you in this preparation stage, you can build a community you can connect with once you have a child (or children!) in your care.

Don't forget about self-care. Maybe it's taking a relaxing bath, going for a walk, or reading a good book. Whatever helps you recharge, make time for it so you'll be at your best.

5. Continue to Learn and Grow

The waiting period is also a great time to expand your knowledge and skills. To become a foster parent, you'll go through state preservice sessions. But there's always more to learn about caring for children in care.

This additional learning can help you feel more prepared and confident.

Start by educating yourself about foster care. Read books, articles, or blogs written by experienced foster parents or professionals in the field.

Many foster care organizations also offer online resources or webinars that cover a wide range of topics. These might include understanding trauma, managing challenging behaviors, or navigating the foster care system.

Developing new skills can also be helpful. You might learn about child development, or brush up on your cooking skills to prepare meals that kids love.

If you know the age range of the children you might be caring for, you could focus on skills specific to that age group.

6. Bonding with Your Family

If you have a partner or children of your own, the waiting period is a perfect time to strengthen your family bonds and prepare everyone for the changes ahead. Welcoming a child in care is a team effort, and getting everyone on board can make the transition smoother.

Encourage your family members to share their thoughts, excitement, and any worries they might have. Listen to their concerns and address them together. This helps create a supportive atmosphere where everyone feels heard and valued.

Planning family activities

Family activities can be a great way to build excitement and unity. You could work together on preparing a room for the child you'll be caring for, or brainstorm fun welcome activities. Maybe create a family calendar to mark important dates or milestones in your fostering journey.

If you have children, involve them in age-appropriate ways. They might help choose books or toys for your child in care or taste test new recipes for family meal time.

This can help them feel part of the process and build empathy.

Building new family traditions

Consider creating new family traditions that can easily include a child in care. This might be a weekly game night, special Saturday breakfasts, or an evening walk. These routines can provide stability and a sense of belonging for everyone.

7. Staying Connected with Your Foster Care Organization

While you're waiting for a placement, it's important to keep in touch with your foster care organization. They're your partners in this journey and can be a great source of support and information.

Don't hesitate to periodically reach out to your caseworker.

They can give you updates on the matching process and potential insights on what you can do to prepare.

Remember to keep your paperwork up to date. If there are any changes in your situation, such as a new job or a home renovation, let your caseworker know.

8. Creating Your Resource Binder

Being organized helps you feel confident and prepared.

A well-organized resource binder keeps important information at your fingertips. Include sections for medical contacts, school information, therapy resources, and important foster care documents.

Add local community resources too, like parks, libraries, or youth programs. Having everything in one place will help you feel more in control and ready to advocate for any child in your care!

9. Assembling a Welcome Kit

First impressions matter, and a thoughtfully prepared welcome kit can help a child in care feel safe and valued from day one.

Start with a backpack or small box and fill it with comfort items. Include cozy things like a soft blanket, warm socks, or a cuddly stuffed animal. Add some quiet activities like a sketchpad with colored pencils or a journal for older kids.

Simple items like a fidget toy, stress ball, or a special nightlight can provide comfort during the adjustment period.

10. Starting a Memory Book

Every child deserves to have their story told and their memories preserved.

As a foster parent, you can help capture special moments and milestones for the children in your care. Set up a memory book where you can collect photos, write down stories, and save special mementos.

This thoughtful gesture shows children that their experiences matter and helps document their journey.

11. Creating a Worry Board

A worry board can be a powerful tool to help children express their feelings safely. Set up a simple whiteboard, corkboard, or notebook in a private space. Stock it with sticky notes, markers, or index cards. When a child arrives, you can explain that this is their special place to share thoughts or worries. Having this ready shows you're prepared to support their emotional needs and provide healthy ways to express feelings.

12. Embracing the Wait

The waiting period might feel long at times, but it can be a valuable part of your fostering journey.

Instead of seeing it as a delay, try to embrace this time as a chance to grow and prepare!

Remind yourself of the reasons you chose to become a foster parent. Maybe write these reasons down and put them somewhere visible. This can help you stay motivated and positive during the wait.

13. Keep a Journal

Consider keeping a journal during this time.

Write about your hopes, fears, and preparations. This can be a great way to process your emotions and track your growth.

Plus, it might be meaningful to look back on these entries once you're actively fostering.

Read Up On Real Foster Parent Stories While You Wait

While you're waiting, why not experience stories from other foster parents?

Get a sneak peek into the world of fostering with Letters Written with Love, a digital scrapbook of letters from foster parents to the children in their care.

Access your free copy now, and experience the love, hope, and joy of foster parents who have been there.

Foster Care