![learn_about_fostering_children_in_idaho](https://familycenter.trialsite.co/fostering-idaho-assets/img/what-is-foster-parenting.jpeg)
What is Foster Care?
Foster care provides a home to children and youth who are temporarily separated from their families due to abuse, neglect, abandonment, or the death of their caregivers. A safe return to the child(rens) biological home is the primary goal. Foster care is an opportunity to care for children who will benefit greatly from your love and support.
![What It Means To Be A Foster Parent](/fostering-idaho-assets/img/children.jpg)
Who are the Children?
- Range in age from 0-18.
- May be part of a sibling group (2 or more).
- Come from diverse ethnic and cultural populations.
- May have medical, mental and/or physical health issues.
- May have developmental delays.
- Have suffered trauma due to neglect or abuse.
All foster children are affected by the separation from their family. Sometimes this stress and worry shows up in their behavior. A supportive foster home makes all the difference in helping these resilient children thrive.
![Relatives Can Be Foster Parents Too](/fostering-idaho-assets/img/relatives-can-be-foster-parents.jpg)
Who Can be a Foster Parent?
A foster parent provides a safe, nurturing temporary home for children in foster care. Every race, ethnicity, marital status, sexual orientation or gender identity/expression are needed to foster. To be considered for a foster care license, an applicant must:
- 18+ years old, no maximum age to foster
- Have sufficient regular income to maintain your own family without foster care reimbursement
- Pass a background check
- Complete training & home study/licensing process