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Autism Focused Foster Care

What is this?

KidsPeace Foster Care and Community Programs (FCCP) offers specialized foster care for autistic children/ children with autism needing placement outside of their families of origin. Youth admitted to this level of care are socially and emotionally unique and developmentally delayed. 

Foster families in the community are prepared with extensive training in the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), an evidence-based treatment model. 

Foster families receive ongoing support and consultation by a team of professionals, including a Licensed Behavior Specialist and/or Board-Certified Behavior Analyst. Additional Autism services are offered within the KidsPeace continuum at the KidsPeace campus in Berks County when applicable.

Why is this needed?

Children with autism who enter the foster care system struggle to convey emotions to others (through language or other symbolic forms of communication), to ask questions, and to get the responses that they need in order to feel more secure. Fear and confusion are lessened when caregivers understand this.    On an ongoing basis, our AFFC foster parents:

• Care for youth who need a calming environment, strong household structure and stability, and access to supports and services
• Manage needs related to trauma and challenging behaviors
• Model, teach and reinforce skills necessary for a joyful and successful future
• Serve as a treatment team member and advocate

Where are services offered?

At present, AFFC is available in Berks County, with wider availability anticipated. 

Who’s on the team?

Adults who are familiar with Autism as a result of personal or professional experiences, and who can meet regulatory and agency requirements as foster parents are encouraged to contact us for more information.  More details can be found in the Q and A’s below.  Agency staff have had specialized training in the field, and offer training to foster parents in addition to the 24/7 support that’s provided.

Frequently asked questions

How can I learn more about being a foster parent without committing to applying until I’m ready?

We host virtual and/or in person information sessions for anyone who’s interested in learning more about the requirements, application process, training, support services to foster parents, and the children we serve.  There are no obligations for anyone wishing to participate.  Please call or email the office directly to schedule an information session, or to RSVP for one of our  Information Nights.

Dates: 

April 4/13 – 6:30pm
June 6/15 – 6:30pm
August 8/17 – 6:30pm
October 10/19 – 6:30pm
December 12/7 – 6:30pm

 

 

How do I become a KidsPeace AFFC parent?

The application process involves a number of scheduled visits to your home over several months. Staff members gather paperwork, interview all family members, inspect the home for safety, provide training, and fully explain the responsibilities of foster parenting. Our meetings help determine if foster parenting is right for you. If the answer is yes, the process helps us match the right child for your home.

What qualities should I possess to become an AFFC parent?

Generally, our most successful foster parents have had personal or professional experiences interacting with or caring for with youth who have an Autism-related diagnosis. All are open-minded, dependable, patient, sensitive to the child’s past, open to their culture, and willing to learn new parenting skills for children with different needs. Having a stable home environment, flexible schedule, being tolerant of change and demonstrating the ability to follow guidelines and work in partnership with those who are involved, are all important qualities for success. We and our foster families are diverse and inclusive!

Do I need any special training?

Yes. We’ll provide everything you will need including: orientation to the program, pre-service trainings, ongoing training, support groups, and other tools to help you learn and develop your skills along the way. Training may be provided in your home, online or in a group meeting.

How long will a child stay in my home?

This varies depending on the needs of the child and the circumstances of their placement. Some children are returned home after only a few months; others after a year or so. Sometimes, children who can’t go home become eligible for adoption; others remain in foster care until age 21 and sometime longer.

Where are these children now?

Children are placed with KidsPeace AFFC via Children and Youth Services, and/or Family Court action. They may enter your home directly from their family of origin’s home, another foster home or from a more restrictive setting such as a residential facility.

Do you offer financial compensation?

Yes, KidsPeace provides a daily stipend that is intended to financially support one stay at home parent, while covering room and board costs of foster children. Your local office can explain the current rate structure and payment system. This non-taxable reimbursement is provided to cover such expenses as food, clothing, shelter, transportation, recreation and allowance. You will not be responsible for your foster child’s medical costs when children are seen by the child’s insurance- approved providers. Your income will need to be determined as sufficient to meet the financial needs of your family.

Connect with a KidsPeace associate

If you wonder about whether or not this role is right for you, or to learn more about how to become an AFFC foster parent, fill out the form below.  One of our staff members will respond by calling or emailing to answer any questions! Please check your call blocker and spam filter if you don’t hear from us soon, and you can always call or email us directly! 

Address: 704 Hay Road Temple, PA 19560 | Email:  Autismfocusedfostercare@kidspeace.org | Phone: 610-921-0130

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