Rules, Regulations & Policies for Foster Parents in Michigan

Foster Family Qualification

• Potential foster parents must meet DHS criteria. Foster parents do not have to be homeowners, married or full-time caretakers. Foster parents do have to be at least 18 years old, with adequate time and income to care for the foster children. Foster parents must also demonstrate physical, emotional and mental health. Additionally, the DHS requires foster parents to possess "good moral character," determined by examining applicants' criminal records. Other members of the foster household must meet most of the same criteria, but do not need to demonstrate income or time requisites.

Foster Home Requirements

• The DHS requires foster homes to maintain high levels of safety. Foster homes must remain clean and in good repair, with adequate heat, light and ventilation. DHS policy requires smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in foster homes. Foster parents must provide running water and at least one flush toilet. Bedrooms must be safe, clean, accessible, free of most large household appliances, supplied with adequate bedding and large enough to provide at least 40 square feet of room for each person, excluding closets. The DHS routinely re-evaluates foster homes and requires foster parents to apply for new licenses at least four weeks before moving.

Care of Foster Children

• The DHS limits children in foster care to eight or less per home, including the foster parents' own children, and limits infants under one year old to two per home. Foster parents must work with the child placement agency to determine appropriate ways to manage children's behavior and must make sure foster children attend school. Foster parents must provide suitable food and clothing for each child and must allow foster children to eat with other family members. Foster parents may only allow foster children to carry out age-appropriate tasks or chores and must provide recreation and transportation.

Recordkeeping and Reporting

• Foster parents must keep detailed records on the children under their care, noting information such as each child's name, date of birth, background, placement history and medical records. Foster parents must also keep the social service worker's contact information. Foster parents must report any suspected abuse or neglect to the child while under their care as well as any changes to the foster family, such as change of employment, arrests or treatment for psychological problems. Foster parents must notify the DHS of any change of residence before moving.