Period of internal decision-making

The basis of successful foster care is a responsible decision – the art of thoughtfully assessing your possibilities and strengths.

So try to think about the life you have now and ask yourself:

Do I have enough physical and mental strength to raise a child?
Am I tolerant and open to others?
What have been my accomplishments?
Where did I fail, what do I miss?
What was my childhood like?
How do I feel about my relationships? My marriage?
Am I willing to give up my comfort?
Am I able to fully devote myself to a child?
Am I willing to adapt?
Do I believe that I cam make my extended family and friends embrace my decision?
Am I willing to significantly reduce my professional engagement if the situation requires?
Am I aware of what it takes to raise a child?
Do I have a specific idea of what the child should be like?
Can I judge what kind of child I would not be able to provide for?
Can I honestly say what I can do for my child?
Will I be able to accept the child’s past?
Will I be able to understand his or her feelings?
Will I have the courage to talk to him about his past and his original family?
Will I have enough money to provide for a child?

To some of the questions, you won’t have a clear answer right away. Some of them will give you ideas for further reflection and also for debate with your loved ones and experts who will accompany you on your journey.