The new foster parent handbook, A Guide to Fostering in Idaho: Nurturing Kids, Building Families, was recently mailed to Idaho foster families. 

Designed for both new and experienced foster parents, the handbook serves as a guide and a support system, addressing many of the questions and challenges foster families encounter.

The handbooks were mailed to foster parents late last week. They’re divided into three sections: Information Sharing, Training, and Support.

• Information Sharing outlines the types of information foster parents can expect to receive and how to access that information to advocate effectively for the children in their care.
• Training highlights safety information and introduces training options available to resource parents.
• Support provides practical problem-solving tools and emotional encouragement to help ensure foster parents have the resources needed to successfully navigate the complexities of foster care.

In addition to printed copies for foster families, local resource peer mentors and support organizations will use the handbook as a tool for training and onboarding new foster families. By incorporating real-life scenarios and practical advice, the handbook aims to bridge the gap between policy and day-to-day parenting challenges.

Foster parents who have already received the handbook have expressed appreciation for its straightforward guidance and accessibility. Some have noted that having all key information in one place makes it easier to navigate the complexities of foster care and advocate effectively for the children in their homes.

The handbook was developed in response to feedback from foster parents and was a collaborative effort involving the department, foster parents, Guardians ad Litem (GALs), resource peer mentors, trainers, and community partners. Each group had one or more representatives instrumental in the development and review of the handbook.

Special thanks go to the Casey Foundation, which generously funded the printing of this first publication. The handbook has also been published online and is available to the general public at DHW’s website.

DHW anticipates updating and republishing the handbook annually.

If you’re interested in becoming a foster parent, please call 2-1-1 or 800-926-2588, or visit DHW's foster care page for more information. Your willingness to open your home can make a profound difference in a child’s life.

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is dedicated to strengthening the health, safety, and independence of Idahoans. Learn more at healthandwelfare.idaho.gov.