Foster

Foster placements can take several forms. The most well known is a traditional foster home. These placements can last between a few weeks and a few years, while the child’s family works to regain custody.

Some foster families choose to receive additional training and licensure to provide care for children with special behavioral or medical needs. YSB is the only private foster care provider in Illinois with a Registered Nurse on staff to support the children and families.

Emergency foster homes provide care for short periods of time (up to 21 days) while our family finding staff works to arrange a longer term solution.

Some families want to help but can’t provide care on a regular or ongoing basis. They become our Respite care homes. They go through the same training and licensing process for the safety of the children and then become an invaluable resource for other foster families that need a short break.

Becoming a caring foster parent means opening your heart and home to children of all ages, ethnic backgrounds, and identities, including those who identify as LGBTQ.

You’ll be responsible for meeting their basic needs, including providing food, clothing, shelter, and appropriate supervision. You’ll also ensure they get to school, medical appointments, therapy sessions, court hearings, and extracurricular activities.

As a foster parent, you’ll be part of a team working together to support each child’s well-being, and your willingness to collaborate with DCFS, teachers, therapists, and other service providers will make a meaningful difference in their lives.

Most importantly, you’ll offer a safe, inclusive environment where every child feels seen, respected, and valued.

Foster Parent Requirements

Foster parenting isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being present, consistent, and caring, even when it’s hard.

Who Can Be a Foster Parent?

• You must be 21 years or older.
• You can be single or married.
• You must be a stable, law abiding citizen.
• You may own or rent your home (landlord approval is required if renting).
• You must have sufficient financial resources to care for yourself, your family, and foster children.
• You must have a valid driver’s license and current auto insurance (or ensure another household member does).

Home Requirements

• Your home must be clean, orderly, and free of hazards (e.g., clutter, exposed wiring, broken windows).
• The foster child’s bedroom must have at least 40 square feet of space and room for their belongings. They may share a bedroom with another child.
• Smoking is not permitted in the home or in vehicles used to transport foster children.
• All dogs and cats (indoor and outdoor) must be current on rabies vaccinations.

Health & Background Checks

• Foster parents must complete a physical exam, TDAP and TB skin test.
• Children in the home must have physicals; school, age children may use their most recent school physical.
• All household members 18 and older must be fingerprinted.
• Youth ages 13–17 in the home must pass a DCFS background check.

Licensing & Training

• You’ll complete a screening process with our agency.
• You must attend and complete PRIDE pre-service training, YSB training, and CPR/First Aid Certification
• You must agree to ongoing supervision and comply with agency and DCFS standards.

Foster parenting is a significant commitment, but you won’t be doing it alone. Both the state and our agency provide a wide range of support to ensure you and your family feel equipped, encouraged, and cared for throughout the journey.

State, Supported Resources

• Monthly financial reimbursement to help cover the cost of the child’s basic needs (food, clothing, shelter).
• Medical, dental, and mental health coverage for the child, through Medicaid.
• Childcare assistance, especially for working foster parents.
• Training and licensure support, including pre, service and ongoing education.
• Legal support and advocacy for permanency planning and court processes.

Agency, Supported Resources

• Dedicated caseworker and licensing worker for ongoing guidance and support.
• Regular home visits and check, ins to address questions or concerns.
• Mental health and behavioral support for both the child and the foster parent.
• Help navigating school systems and advocating for educational services.
• Recognition events, family outings, and appreciation gifts to build community and show gratitude.

Opening your home to a child in foster care is life changing, for you and for them. While the experience is deeply meaningful, it’s also important to be prepared for what the journey may involve. Here’s what you can expect in the first days and weeks:

Emotional Ups and Downs

• Fear, sadness, and uncertainty are common. Children may have just left everything familiar – family, friends, school, even pets.
• Behavior may not match age. Some regress (bedwetting, tantrums), while others act overly mature or independent.
• The “honeymoon” phase is real. Children may seem quiet or well, behaved at first, but this can change as they begin to feel safe.
• Testing limits is a way for children to see if you’ll give up on them too, just as others may have.

Health and Learning Needs

• Children may arrive with unmet medical, dental, or developmental needs.
• Some have learning difficulties or school delays due to instability or trauma.
• Many experience food insecurity behaviors, such as hoarding or overeating.

Impact on Your Household

• Your daily routine will shift. Expect more structure, appointments, and supervision.
• Biological children may need support adjusting to the presence of a foster sibling.
• There may be strong emotions when a child leaves, even if the placement was temporary.

Teamwork and Time Commitment

• Be ready to work closely with caseworkers, therapists, teachers, and biological families.
• You’ll attend regular appointments and often will need to provide transportation.
• Ongoing training and paperwork are part of the process.

And Still… The Rewards Are Real

• You’ll witness growth, healing, and transformation—sometimes slowly, sometimes in big leaps.
• The love and security you provide can have a lifelong impact.
• Many foster parents say it’s the hardest and most meaningful thing they’ve ever done.

Resources

Documents & Links

• Foster Parent Law 2024 Implementation Plan
• Foster Parent Law Grievance Policy
• Foster Parent Law Grievance Form
• Foster Parent Handbook
• DCFS Rules
• Child Care Act of 1969

Trainings

Documents

• Foster Parent Training Credit Approval Form
• CPI De-escalation Tips
• De-escalate Anyone, Anywhere, Anytime
• Sexual Harassment Policy
• Verbal De-escalation

Videos

• IDHR Sexual Harassment Training #1
• Foster Parent Confidentiality Training
• Medication Administration and Storage Training