Single Parent Fostering: You Can be Single and Foster a Child

Foster dad with a foster child in his arms

The latest information from the Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System reveals that there are currently 391,098 children in foster care across the United States. The good news is that the number has declined over the prior year. The reality, however, is that there are still nearly 400,000 foster kids who need foster parents.

Many aspiring parents have questions or doubts that may prevent them from taking that leap and getting their license. They may have heard myths and mistake them for facts. They may have unanswered questions or have made assumptions about who can or cannot foster a child.

For instance, a common belief is that you must be married to foster or adopt a child. In reality, marriage is not a requirement. You can be single and foster a child, and single-parent fostering is more common than you might expect.

Keep reading for information on becoming a foster family in a single-parent home.

Can a Single Person Foster a Child?

The foster care eligibility requirements vary by state. However, you can be single and foster or adopt in any state. Marital status does not affect your ability to care for children. Adults over age 18 can foster a child or provide long-term care as a single adoptive parent.

Of course, being married does have some benefits. For one, you'll have a partner family member to help you with the responsibilities of raising a child. Having a support system makes navigating the parenting of foster and adopted children easier.

That said, you should consider your current lifestyle to determine if you can support a foster or adoptive family.

For example, you need to be healthy and pass a physical exam. You also need to be able to financially support a foster child without relying on state payments.

Do you have a job that requires you to work long hours? Are you willing to attend pre-service and in-service training to learn more about the unique needs of foster youth?

Ask yourself some questions before you commit to the foster or adoption process. This ensures that you're ready to start single parenting. A social worker at your local child-placing agency can answer specific questions. Here are some common Q&A's to get you started:

Can a Single Man Be a Foster Parent?

Yes, single men are often birth parents and can become foster parents, too! Single dads are no longer uncommon in foster care or single-parent adoption.

Some of the latest data on adoptive, foster families shows that while 25% were single females, 3% were single males. The numbers will likely climb as we overcome stigmas and raise awareness about the need for more families.

A vital requirement for foster parents is the ability to love and care for a child in need.

How to Become a Foster Parent When You're Single

Where do you start if you're wondering how to become a single foster parent? Becoming a foster parent is the same whether you're single, divorced, or married.

First, you can work with a state or private foster agency. The choice is up to you, though we recommend doing your research first as you may prefer one path over another. Each option has pros and cons.

Once you reach out to a foster care advocate, they'll talk to you about what to expect and ask you some questions. Common questions include whether you have a preferred age range or are willing to accept sibling groups.

If you're still interested, you'll receive an invitation to an orientation that covers foster care in more depth. You'll learn about the unique needs of foster children, what to expect throughout the process, where you can find assistance, and much more.

You'll also need to go through a fingerprinting process and pass a background check. It involves a lot of paperwork, so staying on top of all your responsibilities will help it to go faster.

You should prepare and familiarize yourself with the Home Study as this is the part most applicants have questions about. It also takes the longest time to complete.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Foster Parent?

This is a question we often hear from first-time applicants. It generally takes three to four months to complete the process and get your license. However, several factors can impact this timeline.

It begins with your initial inquiry to the agency and concludes once your caseworker submits the appropriate forms.

Incomplete or missing paperwork can cause delays. Your schedule and availability may also impact the interview portion of the Home Study.

Once you understand your responsibilities, you should complete the work as soon as possible to expedite the process. Certain factors are out of your hands, like any delays in processing criminal clearances. However, you can do a lot to keep the process moving.

That said, you may need some time to consider the situation. Take time to ask yourself questions, weigh the pros and cons, and prepare yourself for the obstacles ahead.

This is an excellent time to build your support network, which can help you quite a bit as a single parent.

Can You Adopt as a Single Parent?

We are often asked, "Can I adopt a child if I'm not married?" No, you can be single or in an unmarried committed partnership and adopt. Plenty of single moms and dads choose to adopt, especially after fostering.

If you have the time, energy, and resources to care for foster children on your own, then you can absolutely adopt!

Many foster families choose the foster-to-adopt path, which means they begin by fostering children. In most foster care situations, the goal is to reunite a foster child with their birth family.

There are some instances when reunification isn't possible or in a child's best interest. In those cases, many foster children become eligible for adoption. When this happens, the resource parents caring for the child receive priority.

If you're interested in adopting, let your agency know.

You Can Be Single and Foster a Child - Single Parent Fostering

Deciding to foster a child is a big decision that requires careful planning. However, as long as you're in the right position and you have the proper attitude, it's a rewarding journey.

You can be single and foster a child; single-parent fostering isn't too different from providing childcare while married. You may need to rely on the foster care community and your personal support system to help when needed.

The most urgent need for care is among sibling groups and older kids in high school. Tell your agency representative if you are willing to foster teenagers or siblings. Contact a child-placing agency near you to learn more about starting your foster or adoption journey today.