If you're considering becoming a Foster Parent, this page is the perfect place to start. Learn about the different levels of certification, the goals of Foster Care, qualifications you need to become a Foster Parent and the supports available to you as a Foster Parent.
What is Foster Care?
The State of Wisconsin has a level certification system for foster parent licensure. The levels are listed below with the most common levels being described in the chart. Norris licenses primarily "Level 3" foster homes.
Level 1 - Child Specific Foster Care
Level 2 - Basic (or General) Foster Care
Level 3 - Moderate Treatment Foster Care
Level 4 - Specialized Treatment Foster Care
Level 5 - Exceptional Treatment Foster Care
| "Level 2" General Foster Care | Level "3" Therapeutic Foster Care | |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Foster care is temporary care for children provided by licensed foster families when children are unable to live with their parents due to abuse or neglect. | Therapeutic foster care (TFC) is care provided for children who present with moderate to significant behavioral, emotional and/or medical challenges. Children referred to the TFC program generally have complex trauma histories. Norris licensed foster families are able to accept placement (9-12 months on average) of a child or to provide respite (generally between 2-7 days at a time) for a child. We will help you determine the best fit for your family! |
| Goals of Foster Care | The state of Wisconsin Child Protective Services system supports families with the goal of keeping children safe in their home. When children cannot be kept safe, a temporary out of home care placement is sought and in most cases, the goal is for children to return home. | When a child is placed in a therapeutic foster home, the child and foster parent are active team members on the child's treatment team and work together to achieve the identified goals. We will respect your ideas and feedback! |
| Qualifications of Foster Parents | There are basic qualifications that include being over the age of 21, financially stable, flexible and willing to participate in training. No parenting experience is required. | In addition to the basic qualifications, foster parents need to have had experience working with or caring for children. Foster parents are provided with extensive training before accepting a child into their home and throughout the time they are licensed. We will be with you every step of the way to answer your questions and provide training resources. |
| Support for Foster Parents | Foster children are assigned a county case manager; licensing support provided to foster parents varies by county. | In addition to the foster child's county case manager, a Master's Level social worker is assigned to work with the child and foster family providing 24/7 crisis support, weekly contact and bi-weekly home visits. We will be available to support you throughout your experience as a foster family. |
