Foster Care Qualifications | StepStone Family & Youth Services
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Happy foster child with foster parent

Foster Care
that really
cares

Foster Care Qualifications

Do I Qualify?

You’ve got this! General Requirements to be a Foster Parent:

  • Be at least 21 years of age (18 in Ohio)
  • Successfully pass a criminal background records check and child/adult abuse check
  • Have a statement of overall good general health by a medical practitioner (all household members over the age of 18 must have one of these and some states require one for everyone in the household)
  • Provide a safe living environment with adequate space for a new child
  • Attend and successfully complete a specialized pre-service training that helps prepare you for foster parenting.
  • All providers must pass training in medication administration, CPR and first aid
  • Once licensed, complete at least 6 hours of additional training every year (some states require more)
  • Both single and married people are eligible to become foster parents, and “non-traditional” family structures are welcome
  • Truly care about kids, youth and families