When you think of foster care, what comes to mind? Probably a lot of questions, and it could be that you also have quite a few misconceptions as well. This is entirely normal; unless you have thoroughly researched what it takes to be a foster parent, it’s highly likely that you will not have all the facts – why would you?
However, if you are hoping to become a foster parent, something that you might be concerned about is your job. Are you able to work full time and still take care of a foster child? It’s a good question because it could make a big difference to how you go about the next step. If you’re concerned about this, read on.
Can you work and be a foster carer?
Although every agency will have its own set of criteria, what they, including the FCA, will all agree on is that a foster family must have a regular income in order to take the best care of the child in their charge. Therefore, in most cases, a foster parent or parents will need to work to give the child the best care. As long as the needs of the child are also being met, working is not a problem and is often required.
Can you work full-time and be a foster carer?
Of course, working and working full-time are potentially two different things, and this is something you will need to think carefully about. If you currently work full-time, would you be able to dedicate enough time to a child who may well need some extra attention and wouldn’t necessarily thrive in daycare or with a babysitter? There are some brilliant pre-school and pre-kindergarten’s available that will support children to learn and grow like the pre-k in Owings Mills, MD, or ones closer to your location. It all depends on what you are looking for when it comes to child care for your little ones. Everyone has to work in some capacity, so you should not feel guilty for putting them in these environments as they are professionals who know how to take care of your child.
You may also want to consider working part-time instead, depending on your income situation. Remember, as a foster parent you will be required to attend various progress meetings and similar discussions, so you’ll need to be available. Part-time or flexible work could be the answer.
You may have to choose
If you are determined to be a foster parent, then you may have a choice to make. It is very difficult for someone to have a full-time career and still be a good foster parent. In many cases, it is better for the child if you can work part-time, or (if you are fostering as a couple) for one partner to work full-time while the other stays home to take care of the child or children.
Fostering is not an easy thing to do, and it could even be considered a full-time job in itself. If you want to do it, your career will usually need to take a backseat. Working from home could be an answer, but you will still need to focus a lot of attention on the child, meaning that your work could suffer.
It’s best to ask yourself what is more important; your job or being a foster parent. Answer this question truthfully and you’ll know what you need to do. If you do decide to take on the challenge of becoming a foster parent, you will be granted some money to take care of the child; would that be enough to help you?
Whatever you decide I wish you the very best. Let me know in the comments below if you are thinking of fostering or if you foster?
