The applicants must meet certain minimum requirements:

• Be at least 21 years of age
• Pass a medical examination that states that he and/or she is physically able to care for children and be free from communicable disease
• Pass screening requirements related to child abuse and criminal history clearances
• Completion of an intensive home study
• Attendance at a variety of training related to foster care issues

The county children and youth agency must make an assessment of each person's foster parent capacity. The agency will consider the following when assessing each applicant:

• The ability to provide care, nurturance and supervision for the child
• A demonstrated stable and emotional adjustment
• Ties with family, friends and the community
• Ability to work with natural families

The agency also will consider other matters such as each person's attitude toward his or her own children, towards parent/child relationships in general, how the applicant can meet the special needs of children, and how many children are suitable for the home environment. (Foster homes are limited to a total of six children, both foster and natural, under the age of 18 yrs.) Foster parents cannot use physical discipline; children must be directed by praise and encouragement.