One of the most important steps for prospective foster parents is deciding what type of child they’re best prepared to welcome into their home. A common misconception is that children in foster care are mostly older, or belong to one particular race or gender. In reality, the system includes children of all ages, backgrounds, and identities.
According to data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, there are nearly as many infants entering the foster care system as there are pre-teens and teenagers (ages 11–18).
This means foster parents can choose to care for a child at nearly any developmental stage—from infants and toddlers to adolescents preparing for independence.
Health and Human Services data also show that the foster care population includes almost equal numbers of boys and girls.
Gender should not be assumed as a defining factor, as placements are guided more by the child’s needs and family readiness than by gender.
When it comes to race and heritage, no single racial group dominates nationally. The racial composition of foster children varies significantly by region, often reflecting the local population.
However, disparities still exist. In many areas, families of color are disproportionately represented in the child welfare system — a reflection of potential systemic bias among mandatory reporters, social workers, and courts.
Because foster families often differ racially or culturally from the children in their care, cultural sensitivity and education are essential. As we’ll explore in a later lesson, practices like “cultural socialization” and “preparation for bias” training help foster parents build stronger connections and provide culturally affirming care.
Another key consideration is whether you’re open to fostering siblings. While caring for multiple children requires more time, space, and resources, research shows that siblings who remain together tend to thrive emotionally and academically.
In a study of 1,700 children in foster care, teachers were 40% more likely to report positive outcomes for children placed with their siblings compared to those who were separated.
Similarly, foster parents reported feeling a stronger sense of family connection when siblings were kept together. A large-scale study from the University of Texas, involving over 23,000 foster children, found that those separated from siblings were nearly twice as likely to be moved or “displaced” from their foster home.
Our job is to listen, to connect the dots between your needs, and to determine how we can best help you have your baby. If you’re asking how much does it cost for a surrogate, we’ll walk you through every step of the process to ensure there are no surprises.
To make an appointment with one of our counselors or physicians, please call (212) 661-7673 or email info@surrogacy4all.com. We look forward to hearing from you.
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