What Wisconsin Foster Parents Should Expect

Why Parenting Foster Children Is Different – And Why That Matters

If you’re considering becoming a Wisconsin foster parent, you might imagine that parenting a foster child is much like parenting any other child, just with a bit more patience and lots of compassion. That's partly true. But it's critical to understand the many differences and how foster parenting often requires an entirely different mindset.

It isn’t just about providing a loving home; it’s about helping a child heal.

Wisconsin Foster Kids Have a Different Starting Point

Children in care with CCR have experienced early trauma, severe neglect, and/or abuse. They haven't had consistent, attuned caregiving that builds a child’s sense of safety, trust, and self-worth.

As a result, foster children often present as younger than their age, especially emotionally. For instance, a ten-year-old may seem like a six-year-old in terms of emotional regulation, or a teen may struggle with trust and boundaries in ways that seem more appropriate for a much younger child.

That’s not immaturity. That's not a kid being difficult. That’s survival.

Understanding Foster Kids - Development Through Attachment

Think for a moment about how babies learn to understand themselves and the world. A newborn doesn't know the difference between hunger, tiredness, or discomfort. All it knows is that something feels wrong. So, it cries.

In a healthy situation, a caregiver responds — checks the diaper, offers a bottle, gives a cuddle, and wraps the baby in a blanket. Over time, the baby begins to associate that uncomfortable feeling with the relief that comes from a responsive adult. This cycle, repeated thousands of times, teaches the child:

This is the foundation of secure attachment and emotional development.

When That Foundation Is Missing

Now, imagine a child whose cries were met with yelling. Or were completely ignored. Or maybe sometimes helped, but other times they waited and waited for someone to come. Perhaps no one came at all. Or maybe another child — a sibling — tried to meet their needs, doing their best, but missing the mark.

This child learns a very different lesson:

These children often live in a state of heightened alert. They may seem overly independent, always trying to control situations or keep others at arm’s length — because in their experience, adults aren’t safe. They may resist comfort, struggle with transitions, or act out in confusing ways.

This isn't “bad behavior.” This is survival behavior.

Therapeutic Parenting: A Different Approach

Therapeutic parenting is about seeing beyond the behavior to the need underneath. It means responding not with consequences or punishment, but with connection, structure, and predictability — again and again and again.

It means recognizing that many foster children start from a very different place than their peers. Two children may be the same age, but their inner worlds — their expectations of others, their sense of safety — may be worlds apart.

As a foster parent, you are helping that child rewrite their internal story:

But it takes time. And it takes a lot of repetition. Sometimes, children will test your consistency, not because they’re being difficult, but because they need to see if you’ll still be there when things get hard. They will test you and push buttons to get a reaction to gauge your commitment.

It’s Not Easy, But It’s Worth It

Foster parenting isn’t just about offering a child a loving home. Sure that's part of it. More importantly, it’s about providing them a new model of what it means to be cared for — what it means to be safe. You are helping a child who may never have known what a genuine connection feels like to finally begin to trust again. No matter their age!

And while it may not look like traditional parenting, it is powerful parenting. It’s slow, patient, deeply intentional work. But it can be life-changing — for the child, and for you.  

Thinking about fostering?
Fostering a child or siblings with CCR could be one of the most meaningful journeys you ever embark on. If you're feeling overwhelmed just thinking about it, talk with us. We will guide you and answer any questions you may have.

Most likely, you meet all the requirements to foster a child, you just don't know it. You probably have more patience than you know. And you definitely have a kind heart for fostering or you wouldn't be reading this blog!  

Give yourself time to explore. When you're ready, we will guide you. We always need more foster parents for kids ages 2-18, especially siblings and teens. 

Please contact us to learn more about CCR and the kids needing your help.

Teen in Wisconsin Foster Care Struggles to Find a Home

David has been in and out of Wisconsin foster care for five years. He is 14 years old. He is currently placed with a cousin struggling to meet his needs. Here is a bit of David's story:

Wisconsin foster parents need a flexible schedule

David, a 14-year-old boy, needs a foster home with at least one parent available or a parent with a highly flexible schedule. His journey has been challenging, having been diagnosed with depression, ODD, and ADHD. While he is not currently on medication, he is open to an assessment, believing it could be beneficial and help him with his emotions.

For David, a foster home with younger children and pets, particularly dogs, would be ideal. He enjoys the company of younger children and finds pets to be naturally calming. A home with these elements would provide a supportive environment for him.

Siblings in foster care are often separated.

David has two sisters who live with their grandmother in. The siblings have phone contact. Next month, there is a planned visit with grandma and sisters. He is excited for the visit and hopes it is not cancelled.

Several months ago, he was moved to live with his cousin for the second time. She is requesting the teen be transferred to a licensed foster home. The cousin is a single woman, working full-time. She is struggling with David's disrespect and unwillingness to follow the rules, which she attributes to their closeness in age. Although he has done well overall, the cousin is unable to provide the proper parenting and supervision that David needs.

Foster kids often struggle in school.

Schoolwork has been a struggle for years. David is in 9th grade and has an IEP. His cousin reports that David wants to attend school and often tries to do the required homework but needs assistance to complete assignments on time.

David has attended multiple schools in the last several years, making it difficult to make friends or build relationships. He likes to give the impression that he is "tough". In addition, the boy has a history of not taking responsibility for his behaviors. Instead, he will deny his involvement and blame others for his behavior.

More Wisconsin foster parents are needed for kids with trauma histories

David's story is not unique. Witness to unhealthy relationships, alcohol abuse, lack of proper schooling, separation from his siblings, and an incarcerated parent all create trauma, which means David presents emotions and behaviors that require consistent parenting, patience, and time to build trusting relationships.

Kids like David can thrive when a foster family can provide stability and structure! We've seen it hundreds of times with our CCR foster families. They begin to heal when the constant moving from home to home stops.

CCR is desperate for more families to become foster parents for kids like David. Learn how to become a foster parent in Wisconsin by calling us today.

*We did not have a foster home available for David, so the referring county continued their search for a home in the right location to meet his needs.

All identifying information are altered to protect the privacy of children.

 

A Tragic History All Too Common For Teens

Wisconsin teens in foster care are survivors.

Like many kids in Wisconsin foster care, Cathy has not had many basic life experiences. She recently went into a grocery store for the first time in her life with her foster mom. She was utterly overwhelmed. She is no different than most kids in foster care. She is a survivor. She struggles to trust. She is vulnerable. She is hurting.

A structured, stable foster home environment can provide significant opportunities for healing and growth. Like most other youth in care, Cathy requires a foster home able to support her with patience, consistency, and flexibility.

Her path toward healing begins with new foster parents.

A no-contact order is in place with her father, and communication with her mother has been attempted, although it can be challenging. Their relationship is volatile and unpredictable. Cathy is angry and expresses she has no desire to see her mom.

Cathy is currently placed in a temporary foster home while the referring County searches for a long-term, stable placement for her. She likes her privacy, and being alone is comforting and important to her. She is creative and enjoys arts and crafts, as well as engaging in conversation with others. She is easy to get along with and likes jigsaw puzzles and the foster family dog.

Like many teens, she loves video games. Unfortunately, Cathy cannot play unsupervised because of a history of inappropriate online behavior. Cathy does have a cell phone, although her current foster mom uses a structured phone schedule and supervises content.

Dog on bed

Many youth in foster care need gentle reminders.

Basic hygiene reminders are necessary. Showering, deodorant, and feminine hygiene are constant reminders. Like many youth in foster care, Cathy needs encouragement and praise.

Although Cathy has completed her first year of high school, she tests at a 5th-grade level for reading and writing. In addition, she has an IEP and behavior plan at school.

While living with her parents, she required a lot of extra help every morning upon arrival at school due to a bed bug issue at home. She reports that it was hard and uncomfortable starting her day that way. She was often bullied.

Cathy displays nearly all signs of childhood trauma:
  1. Reliving the event (flashbacks or nightmares)
  2. Avoidance
  3. Anxiety
  4. Depression
  5. Anger
  6. Problems with trust
  7. Withdrawal

Like many teens, she sleeps a lot. However, the current team suspects this may be related to medication. She is seen for med management and attends therapy weekly.

reddish brown hair girl

CCR desperately needs more homes for teens.

Teens like Cathy are referred to CCR every day. They are kids hoping for a stable, loving, safe place to call home—a home where adults can be trusted, and kids can begin to heal.

We did not have a home in the right county location for Cathy, so the referring county continued its search. In part, CCR turns away a very high percentage of referred teens because foster parents, new and experienced, fear the unknown. The majority of foster families are afraid of troubled teens. The reality is these are good kids. You can help!

Please get in touch with us to learn more about fostering teens and how you can begin your fostering journey. Qualify to be a foster parent and get started today.

All identifying information are altered to protect the privacy of children.

How Long Does it Take to Get a Foster Care License

One of the most common questions future foster parents ask is: "How long does it take to get a foster license?" There are numerous steps to becoming a foster parent in Wisconsin, and how long it takes to obtain a foster license often depends on how quickly applicants submit the required paperwork.

CCR can issue a foster license in as little as 100 days, provided you submit the necessary documents promptly. Our process is designed to keep things moving while ensuring you feel prepared and supported every step of the way.   

Steps to getting a Wisconsin foster care license

While 100 days may sound fast, it’s still a journey with a lot of details along the way. But you don’t have to figure it out on your own. Our team walks with you, answers questions, and helps you stay on track. Every step of the licensing process brings you closer to opening your home to a child or siblings who need safety, stability, and love. 

CCR follows state regulations, which means there are always steps involved in getting a foster care license:

At some agencies, these steps can take 6-8 months or more. At CCR, we’ve refined the process to make it as seamless as possible for applicants, ensuring you're comfortable and confident with your decision to be a foster parent.  

Why does getting a foster license take so much time?

As expected, caring for someone else's children requires the state of Wisconsin to know you well. This can take time. There are references, background checks, home visits, and training for new foster parents. The state mandates most steps to become a foster parent, while CCR requires additional steps to ensure you're confident upon licensure. Our well-organized and thorough licensing process will prepare you to become a foster parent. 

foster parents

Once your application is received, background checks will be initiated. From there, our licensing specialists guide you step-by-step through paperwork, home visits, and training. When everything is complete, a home study is written and submitted to the state. That’s when your foster care license is issued.

Foster license home visits and interviews.

Our goal is to gain a deeper understanding of you and your family. We'll evaluate how your family uses your living space and understand your day-to-day life and functions. There is no such thing as a "perfect" foster home. There will be plenty of time to prepare your home and make it safe to welcome foster children.

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As mentioned, there will be paperwork, including questionnaires, reference requests, medical and financial forms, and checklists, during the home visits. Some of the necessary documents will be:

100 days to get a foster care license

Our team keeps the process organized, supportive, and moving forward. You won't need to worry about chasing us down to learn about next steps. From paperwork and background checks to training and home visits, every step is designed to prepare you to welcome a child or siblings with confidence.

We desperately need more homes across Wisconsin. If you've been considering fostering, now is the ideal time to take the first step. 

 

Wisconsin Foster Child Desperate for a Family

Arthur is a 12-year-old who loves school and tacos. He has been in Wisconsin foster care for nearly half his life. He is one of almost 40 children referred to us in the past month from county foster agencies across Wisconsin. We tried unsuccessfully to match Arthur with a CCR foster family that could meet his elevated needs. A lack of foster families for kids like Arthur is an ongoing problem with no end in sight. Telling a county, "We don't have a home," never gets easier. Here is Arthur's story.

Hundreds of Wisconsin foster kids need loving homes.

His story resembles the hundreds of kids we could not match with a loving family this year. He is a great kid who desperately wants to belong. He misses his mom and siblings. He is a boy trying to be "good" while not able to understand his circumstances fully.

On paper, Arthur looks like lots of other boys. He loves school, pizza, and tacos. He is helpful and sensitive to others. On most days, Arthur is in a good mood. He does well when things are organized and in order. Structure and clear expectations are beneficial in keeping Arthur focused.

Boy with foster mom

Like many boys, he enjoys Legos, karate, playing outside, and science-related activities. Although he is nearly 13, he demonstrates the development and maturity of a 10-year-old. Arthur most often shows respect and an interest in others. He does well in school, completing work and assignments on time.

Wisconsin foster parents can provide a structured environment.

Arthur is capable of following simple directions most of the time. He does best when given one task at a time rather than multiple instructions or tasks. Healthy boundaries are an ongoing treatment piece for Arthur. He is currently working on asking for hugs instead of hugging someone without consent. A foster home with a structured environment with clear rules and boundaries is critical. Having a parent at home when Arthur is not in school would be best.

Misplacing and losing his eyeglasses is a continued problem that Arthur is trying hard to do better with. Arthur is prescribed several medications but is overall healthy and likes to get exercise. It is noted that Arthur is full of high energy in the morning. This appears to be related to his excitement to attend school, as he often wants to go immediately and struggles to wait. Arthur must be challenged to stay active to expel his energy and thrive in his new placement.

It would be essential for Arthur to remain involved in therapy on a consistent and regular basis.

Respite care offers Arthur a visit with his biological siblings.

fostering a teenager

Although Arthur's biological mother resides out of state, he has weekly telephone contact with her. The frequency of the mother's contact has increased over the past two months. She has recently expressed a desire to visit Arthur in person. Parental rights have been terminated for all of Arthur's siblings. Two of the siblings have been adopted, and the adoptive family is open to continued contact with Arthur. He inquires about his siblings often. The adoptive mother often offers respite care for Arthur so the children can spend time together.

A two-parent household with a parent available to Arthur when he is not in school is desired. Due to his energy levels and need to be busy and engaged, it would be best if Arthur were placed in a foster home with other children.

There have been no known instances of physical aggression with peers in the last six months. Arthur does not instigate peer conflict. However, he can be verbally aggressive in retaliation. Arthur will attempt to fit in with his peers, often resulting in negative consequences since the kids he responds to exhibit inappropriate behaviors.

It has been noted that before Arthur's current placement, many of his medications prescribed previously were likely not effective in helping to manage behaviors. Medication changes have taken place and seem to be effective.

Many foster children require an Individual Education Plan (IEP)

Arthur enjoys school and especially likes math. He has an IEP for learning needs. The IEP also includes a learning disability in reading and written expression. There are no concerns at this time with current teachers and aides. Arthur has made significant progress. Before his current placement, he had several verbal and physical altercations at school. He would threaten others, refuse to do his work, and on one occasion, he intentionally hit his head against a wall. Again, there has been no negative behavior in the current placement.

Foster kids thrive with positive reinforcement.

Arthur must have outlets and opportunities for physical activity. He has a lot of energy and thrives when given a structured opportunity to expel his energy. Arthur craves affection and will assert himself to have this need fulfilled. Reminders are needed to respect other people's personal boundaries and personal space. Foster parents should clearly outline rules and expectations. He does best with positive reinforcement.

It will be necessary for Arthur to establish a relationship with a potential family before placement. An overnight or weekend preplacement visit would be beneficial. A therapist should be established for Arthur before his new placement to ensure no disruptions in his treatment.

Community Care Resources receives approximately 40-45 referrals each month. We do our best to match each child and sibling group with a CCR foster family that can best meet their needs. The challenges of caring for a child with heightened behaviors require CCR foster parents to have flexible schedules. This allows for unplanned interruptions, meetings, appointments, and family visits.

We desperately need more foster homes to care for kids like Arthur. Feel free to call us anytime if you'd like to learn more. 800-799-0459

*Names and identifying information of children in all CCR blogs are changed to protect privacy.

 

Ask This Before Becoming a Foster Parent in Wisconsin

If you want to become a foster parent in Wisconsin, it is important to do research and ask questions of the foster agency. Learning everything you can before committing to an agency will be beneficial when caring for foster children in your home. Most people know the basic questions to ask, but one question stands out. There is one question everyone should ask of a foster agency.

The first step to becoming a foster parent in Wisconsin.

The CCR team answers calls, emails, instant messages, and texts from prospective foster parents daily. We answer dozens of questions on how to qualify and the steps to become a foster parent. We address everyone individually and personally. We do not offer generic group information sessions or send out packets of information to be explored at home. We want folks to have ALL the foster care answers needed to make the best decision for themselves and their family. Transparency and honesty are promised to everyone inquiring.

Popular questions about becoming a Wisconsin foster parent:

We speak with hundreds of Wisconsinites every year about foster parenting. Sometimes, it is a quick message; most times, it is a 15-20 minute phone call. It all depends on how many questions are asked and how much information is desired. With big hearts and eagerness to help, the majority of people ask the following questions:

Not quite sure what questions to ask us? We have the experience to help.

We understand that, in most cases, people don't know what questions to ask about becoming a foster parent. That is precisely why CCR has a retired foster parent available to answer calls and handle all inquiries. Speaking with someone who has fostered children and understands the exploration and decision-making process is a real benefit to people considering foster parenting. From the first contact with CCR, folks know we are here to help with honesty.

Ask as many questions as possible, but remember the most important question!

Remember when a teacher said, "There are no dumb questions." That is true here at CCR as well. Ask us anything, big or small. We promise to be honest and transparent.

ccr support team

The most important to ask a foster care agency is:

How will your agency support me when I have a foster child(ren) placed in my home?

The answer you get should be the determining factor in choosing a foster agency. SUPPORT. Foster parents cannot do this work alone. The primary reason foster parents quit or transfer to a different agency is the lack of agency support. What is promised, and what will be delivered?

Ask these specific questions about the support you will receive as a foster parent.

Social services are plagued with high employee turnover and burnout. Specifically, ask what the average length of employment is for case managers. In addition, be sure to ask the following questions, as they are crucial to foster parent success and the ability for kids to heal in a stable environment.

Support is Second

It takes a team to care for kids in foster care. Successful foster parents are part of a team working together for children's best interests. The CCR team is dedicated to serving and supporting families and children. For 34 years, helping children heal from trauma has been our number one goal. We do that with a team effort, and we genuinely believe that the support we provide our foster parents is better than any agency in Wisconsin.

Call us anytime. Ask us about support services and what we will do for you while kids are placed in your home!

 

Wisconsin Foster Parents Celebrate with Trans Youth

Wisconsin foster parents witness amazing transformations with their kids. Foster youth can enter the home one way, do a 180 and leave a completely different way. Not always, but quite often. So much can happen for youth if placed in the right foster home with the right foster parents. Confidence builds. Grades go up. Friends are made. Diplomas are earned. College scholarships are given. For Chase, ALL of the above happened. In less than eight months, the life of this fantastic young man changed dramatically. Read his story in his own words.

Wisconsin foster parents welcome their first foster youth.

I got placed at Rick and Dan's house in November 2021. I was coming from a rough home up north. I was nervous and worried about how they would react to me and if they were going to judge me, but they did the exact opposite of that. I walked into their house, shy and nervous. I remember sitting at the kitchen table with Dan standing by the kitchen and my social worker right next to me speaking for me. I couldn't even get myself to look at Dan, let alone talk to him.

All I knew was that I was a 17-year-old Transgender male with severe mental health issues. I was moving to a brand new town and going into a new foster home, not knowing what to expect. This was going to be my 9th foster home and hopefully my last. I didn't want to get my hopes up and be let down. I remember my social worker leaving about an hour later, leaving me sitting there by myself, scared and 5 hours away from the town I grew up. She left me with two adult men and a little boy. I had no idea what I was getting into. I entered that home prepared for them to give up on me as every other foster home had.

Foster kids crave and need support and acceptance.

Dan and Rick are two of the most supportive people I have been with. They are supportive, accepting, understanding, and loving. I can't say we have perfect father-son relationships. We have arguments, and we disagree sometimes, but we talk about them and work through the issues instead of giving up on each other.

Dave Ryan1

When I am having a bad day at school, I will text them in our group chat, and they make me smile or remind me that I can get through it. When I have flashbacks because of my trauma, they will sit with me and make sure I am okay and safely get out of the flashback.

They support me and my decisions with transitioning to become my true self. They help me with school and doing homework. There are times that Dan has sat with me at the kitchen table for hours, working with me to understand my math homework. He is so patient with me.

Roughly 10% of foster youth go on to college.

I am going to college because they had faith in me and helped me get to the point where I am graduating and going off to college in the fall. I will be staying with them while I work on getting my associate's degree at UW Baraboo. When I move down to Platteville to get my master's degree in Behavioral Health, I will live in my own apartment, but I will still come up for holidays and breaks. Even though I have only been with them for a little over eight months, they are my biggest blessings. They filled the empty space I had in my heart. I never really got the chance to have a family, and they gave me that.

Ash

Here I am, part of their family. I took their last name, and they are my dads and my little brother. I couldn't be more grateful for them.

AND what Chase did not tell everyone is that he was awarded a $16,000 college scholarship!!!

CCR foster parents continue to be there for ALL youth.

As a treatment foster care agency, we strive to place youth with a family we feel has the best opportunity for success. Growth and healing is our focus. The CCR staff could not be more proud of Rick and Dan and the love and acceptance they have shown Chase. We always say that "meeting kids where they are at" is so important when being a foster parent. These men did that and so much more!

Shocking statistics for LGBTQ+ kids in foster care.

LGBTQ+ youth enter foster care for reasons like other children and youth. Their birth families often cannot provide a safe, stable, and nurturing home. In some cases, families reject, neglect, or abuse young people when they learn that they identify as LGBTQ+.

LGBTQ+ youth are overrepresented in foster care, even though they are likely to be underreported because they risk harassment and abuse if their LGBTQ+ identity is disclosed. Studies have found that about 30 percent of youth in foster care identify as LGBTQ+ and 5 percent as transgender, compared to 10 percent and 1 percent of youth not in foster care.

Unfortunately, many LGBTQ+ youth continue to experience verbal harassment or physical violence after they are placed in a foster home due to conflicts related to their sexual orientation or gender identity. Chase was placed in EIGHT FOSTER HOMES before landing safely with Dan and Rick. Imagine the homes and the struggle to be accepted, loved, and welcomed.

If you or anyone you know is interested to become a foster parent, please contact us. We can't wait to talk with you.

 

Kids in Foster Care Trying to Survive Trauma

Children are in Wisconsin foster care for a wide variety of reasons. Every reason creates or stems from a traumatic experience or series of experiences. We have written many blogs about kids referred to CCR. We share as much information as we can while protecting the child's privacy. Our goal is to help prospective foster parents understand trauma and its effects on children. Sadly, we share another unimaginable story of a 12-year-old girl who needed a loving home.

Wisconsin foster care is full of kids trying to survive their trauma.

We often tell prospective foster parents to focus on a child's presenting issues and behaviors vs. the child's age. Many new foster parents that want to foster younger children discover quickly that kids can present much younger than their age. Tasha is an example of a child whose behaviors and emotions do not match her age. Although she is 12 years old, Tasha behaves like a much younger child with regular outbursts and attention-seeking behaviors. Although in sixth grade, Tasha has an IEP (Individual Education Plan) and struggles socially with peers. Her exposure to a tragic and frightening incident compounded her trauma to another level.

girl on the swing zk4JNuPO SBI 300199687 1

Tasha has a tough time when told "no" and has been known to scream profanities when angry. At 12 years old, her behaviors are more like a younger child throwing a tantrum. Door slamming and foot-stomping are commonplace. She was not disciplined by her biological parents and was provided with little structure or boundaries. A history of neglect has taken its toll on Tasha, and the only way she knows how to express herself is through heightened, unhealthy behaviors.

CCR foster parents use trauma-informed parenting tools to help kids.

The CCR clinical staff says "basic" parenting skills don't work with kids with trauma. They are right. All CCR families complete trauma-informed care training to gain the knowledge and tools needed to care for kids with trauma histories. Kids like Tasha do not respond to basic discipline tactics and logical consequences. Studies on children like Tasha show that severe deprivation or neglect: disrupts how children's brains develop and process information, thereby increasing the risk for attentional, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral disorders. Using trauma-informed parenting skills helps kids like Tasha learn, heal, and grow.

Neglect accounts for 78% of all child maltreatment cases nationwide,

Tasha's biological father is deceased, and she lived with her mother and stepfather until late 2021. Her mother and stepfather have a long history of drug addiction and domestic violence; both were addicted to Opiates, as was her stepfather's sister Joanne. Tasha was regularly in the presence of adults using drugs. Tragically, Tasha witnessed Joanne overdose and pass away in the family's home. Her stepfather told Tasha to call the police and give false information during the overdose. When the police arrived, they found drugs accessible to Tasha and subsequently removed her from home, and she was placed in a county foster home.

drugs scaled

County foster homes are often unable to meet the higher needs of foster children.

Tasha's foster parents gave written notice to have her removed from their home. The foster parents stated they struggled to regulate Tasha's attention-seeking behaviors and found caring for their four biological children very difficult while tending to her heightened needs. Both foster parents worked outside the home and utilized afterschool care for Tasha. She struggled in the unstructured environment. The couple believed that Tasha required additional services not currently provided, and the county agency agreed.

The case was referred to CCR in hopes of matching Tasha with a family offering a parent available to her at all times outside of school hours. The ideal foster home would not have other children living in the house to provide Tasha with much-needed one-on-one attention. In addition, an experienced foster home using trauma-informed parenting tools would be best for her.

The referring county's goal was to reunify Tasha with her family. It was anticipated that she would need a foster family to commit to at least an 18-month period. Sadly, we did not have a CCR foster home available in the right location that could meet Tasha's needs. Tasha is one of over a dozen kids near her age that we could not place this month.

Foster parents are needed in all counties for kids like Tasha.

Referrals are pouring in at CCR, and we do not have enough homes for all the children. Many are sibling groups, and a large number are over age eight. They are good kids that need more than what a basic Level 2 foster home can provide. They need treatment services to address their trauma and foster parents willing to learn about trauma-informed parenting.

Tasha is a perfect example of why CCR requires all foster parents to have a flexible schedule with a parent available when kids are not in school. Kids with significant trauma histories need a structured, stable home environment utilizing trauma-informed care parenting tools. They have difficulty succeeding in daycare, afterschool programs, and summer camps. We

Our experienced team is dedicated to foster parents and kids to ensure foster parents feel supported and kids have ample opportunities to heal.

All identifying information are altered to protect the privacy of children.

 

Foster Mom of 5 Siblings Loves Being a Foster Parent

I have always wanted to be a foster parent for sibling groups.

My name is Heather; I am a stay-at-home Wisconsin foster parent and cannot express enough how amazing CCR has been for my family and me. When I first looked into how to become a foster parent, I reached out to a local private agency and my county foster care agency. It took many phone calls and several weeks to get return calls or an information packet in the mail. I was frustrated already and had barely begun. I found CCR online while doing more research and made the call. They answered immediately and talked with me for nearly an hour! My husband and I were licensed a couple of months later. That is quick!

We received placement of a large sibling group 11 days after licensing. Very quick! We instantly went from a family of 4 (soon to be 5) to a family of 9 (soon to be 10). Yes, I was pregnant, had two kids of my own, and said yes to fostering a large sibling group. Our dream! We are thrilled and blessed to foster these five precious kids. Here is a quick story of how we got to be a family of 10.

Heather Doherty

All foster parents deserve 24/7 support and transparent communication.

We chose CCR for MANY reasons. Just the first phone call alone, I could tell how much they genuinely care about the children that have to go through this challenging process. They have a fantastic training course with so many members to help you and answer any questions along the way. Unlike most agencies, with CCR, you will ALWAYS be able to get ahold of someone to talk to about anything that comes up at any time of day or night.
My husband and I wanted to foster sibling groups to help them stay together. These children often find themselves at CCR because it is hard to find homes to take all the children together. I admit I thought it was a little invasive, knowing we would have a case manager in our house every week. But oh my goodness, it’s AMAZING. I love my case manager Wanda! At least for the first month, that poor lady was getting phone calls from me daily! Sometimes a few a day! She answered and talked me through all my questions and concerns or even vented about what’s happening with my bio children!

There are so many siblings in foster care.

We wish we could live in a world where foster parents weren’t needed, and kids were safe at home. Unfortunately, that’s not the case, and more and more kids are being removed daily. Neglect, all forms of abuse, death in the family, or even the parents just needing a little help to get back on their feet. I look at my foster children every day, and my heart hurts knowing that there are kids out there falling through the cracks or hiding their pain from what’s happening at home, so nobody knows.
Even the thought that maybe without my husband and I, they would be separated and in different homes away from each other makes my heart hurt. All five kids have been a blessing to our family.
I’m so blessed to be a part of the CCR family and am so thankful for the kiddos in my home. Watching them and guiding them to overcome their trauma and hardships can be challenging at times but amazingly worth it.
Please consider fostering. Don’t think you have the room? Call and ask. Don’t think you have the time? Call and ask. Don’t think you have the financial means? Call and ask. If you have the heart to do it and the patience, I promise you it’s worth it.
Some so many kids need a home. One loving home could change their life completely.
If you have any questions, please reach out to CCR or even ask to talk with me. I am willing to help in any way I can.
Sincerely,
Heather, proud CCR foster mom of 8.

Can Foster Parents Choose the Age of Foster Kids?

Choosing the age of the children you wish to foster is one of many considerations to becoming a foster parent in Wisconsin. Most important is how a foster child will fit into your family. Although foster parents cannot pick specific children to care for, they can have an age preference. 

Foster parents can choose the age and gender of a child.

One of the first questions we ask prospective CCR foster parents is: Do you have an age range in mind? No right or wrong answer exists, but it is a great place to start our initial conversation. Knowing what age group interests you allows us to help you explore fostering and how it will fit with your family. Keep in mind the dynamics of your household, space, schedules, and whether other children are living in your home.

The greater your age range preference, the more opportunities for placing children in your home. It may be helpful to break down your preferences into the following groups.  

 

CCR is committed to finding the best home for each child and sibling group where healing can happen. Many factors go into deciding where a child will be placed. Our goal is to create successful outcomes for both foster parents and kids.

How are children placed in a foster home?

When a child or sibling group is referred to CCR, our team reviews available families for the best possible home. Considerations may include:

When a referral is a potential match for your home, Brian, our placement supervisor, calls to share what he knows about the children, including the history of abuse/neglect, behaviors, emotional health, and any previous foster home placements. A pre-placement visit allows the foster family to meet the children before committing to a placement. Typically, the kids will spend an overnight or weekend with the family and determine if they wish to care long-term for the children. A typical placement will last 12-24 months. If the family declines the placement, the search continues to find a suitable home where healing can happen.

 

A desire to foster younger kids may include sibling groups and older kids.

Below is a recent post from a foster parent support group on Facebook. The frustration is accurate; waiting can be difficult. Her question received many comments from foster parents across the country that are worth considering if you want to foster little kiddos. 

"Hoping you can help me out. We've been getting lots of calls for kids over age eight. The age group we prefer is newborn to age 6. I feel awful turning them down, but I'm just nervous about that age group. Should we stick with our preferred range or consider raising our age range? What have you done? Thanks"

We’ve had a couple of placements, both older than what we thought we wanted. The first one was seven, but he was more like a four-year-old in reality. It was non-stop and very challenging. We have a 12-year-old now, and although she has teenage feelings, she’s academically a fourth-grader and emotionally behind. She has a lot of childhood trauma. I never saw my family taking an older child but she is a great fit for our family. It might be wise to consider development and history instead of age.

We said eight and under, and we don't have room for siblings. We got one call in the first four months! It was for a six-year-old, and it fell through. We finally said we would go older; we have a 10-year-old boy now. He came with a lot of issues, but he is doing better every day he is with us. I’m so glad we said yes.

We currently have two sisters, ages 4 and 6, and they are great, but a 13-year-old girl we had with us last year was such a fantastic kid. Teens, in general, made me nervous before her. Maybe she was an exception, but she fit so well with us. 

We got a nine-year-old, and it was hard initially to get used to because our only bio is a four-year-old. We are five months in, and I love this girl so much. It looks like they may be terminating rights, so she may be here to stay!

We originally wanted 0-6, but we did respite for an 11-year-old girl, and she was the easiest of the five kids we have had since getting licensed. The littles are fun but have lots of trauma. Do what you think is best for your family.

When we got our foster care license, we said eight and under because we have an 8 and 5 yr old. They called us for a 10-year-old boy, asking if we could be open-minded (they were trying to get him back to Wisconsin). Four months later, he is still with us and thriving!!
My husband and I wanted foster kids under the age of four. The agency warned us we would be waiting. We waited so long and have not gotten any calls for that age. We finally got a call for a 9-year-old girl, she was here for 9 months. Now we have a 15-year-old girl and she has been a challenge but she is thriving here. Our 6-year old bio son loves her to pieces.
I got a teenager when my two kids were under five years old, and as awkward as it was at first, it was great! I will happily take a teenager again.

Girls in car

I wanted kids under age 10 because my kids are 6 and 9. After waiting for five months, I finally accepted my first full-time placement. She’s a 14-year-old. I was so nervous!! But I love her. She can be difficult, but we work through it. I am glad I opened up my age range, or I would have missed knowing her. 

Our age group was 3-10 (no diapers), and I thought I could never do older, but after having a few foster kids in elementary school (high maintenance), we said yes to a 15-year-old, and let me tell you, she is a fantastic kid. Yes, there is drama but she is so much fun and loving. The younger ones were exhausting!

My 4-year-old foster son is giving me a run for my money but he was worth waiting for 3 months to get the call. If that's the age range you really want. Be patient. .
Foster parents change their minds a lot!
Changing your mind as you travel through your foster parenting journey is okay. Sticking to your original thoughts is also OK, but that may mean being patient for a placement. The common theme in the comments to the woman's post was that all of the foster parents adjusted their age range. They all opened their hearts to something other than what they originally planned. Most expressed how they would have missed out if they had not changed their minds.
Hundreds of kids need homes.
No matter your age preference, hundreds of Wisconsin kids are waiting for a home. CCR receives approximately 60 referrals each month from counties across Wisconsin. We will always need more homes for all the kids. Please consider helping older kids. Our new foster parent advisor, Jane, has personal fostering experience and would love to talk with you, whatever your preference is. Contact us anytime!
GET YOUR FOSTER LICENSE IN 100 DAYS! Homes for kids 10-18 are desperately needed.