In April 2009, Los Angeles County had 20,252 children in placement because their parents abused or neglected them. Until recent years, it was believed that foster homes could adequately meet the needs of children who were unable to safely return to their birth families. Over the past few years, the pendulum has swung dramatically and child welfare professionals have increasingly recognized the benefits of adoption, which provides stability for foster youth. Fost/adopt parents (parents who are willing to provide both short-term and permanent care) are now view as the most valuable resource for the children and are looked to first when the Department of Children and Family Services is looking for an adoptive home.
There are huge benefits for children adopted by their fost/adopt parent(s). The biggest benefit being that they do not have to “start over.” Staying in the same placement saves the child from losing all that is familiar, both people and things.
Further, since it is the fost/adopt family who most likely has been meeting the needs and caring for the child during visits with the birth family, the fost/adopt family is best able to help the child maintain important connections where appropriate.
There are also substantial benefits to the fost/adopt parents. Fost/adopt parents have a greater knowledge of a child’s experiences prior to adoption and know what behaviors they may expect from the child. Fost/adopt parents usually have fewer fantasies and fears about the child’ birth family. Finally, fost/adopt parents have a greater understanding of their role and relationship through working with their agency and social worker.
Fost/adopt families who decide to pursue adoption should get as much information as possible to best ensure a smooth transition for the child and for themselves. Nothing could be more rewarding than providing a permanent home to a child in need.
For further information about foster parenting or becoming a foster or fost/adopt parent, please contact Robin Monroe, M.A., Certification Coordinator at 818-988-6300, ext. 212 or e-mail robinm@fosterfamily.org . Inner Circle Foster Care & Adoption Services is located at 7120 Hayvenhurst, Suite 204 in Van Nuys.