Steps to Become a Foster / Adoptive Parent
What are some of the steps to become a foster/adoptive parent?
- Must be at least 21 years old
- Have adequate income to meet your family’s financial needs
- Background check including criminal history and prior Child Protective Services involvement
- Pass a home inspection by the county Fire Marshal’s office and HSA
- Pass a physical exam from your doctor along with a Tuberculosis (TB) test
- Complete MAPP, a 30-hour training course for prospective foster and adoptive parents
What is MAPP?
Model Approach to Partnerships in Parenting (MAPP) is the 30-hour training course that is required for all foster and adoptive parents in the state of North Carolina.
The curriculum is designed to help you decide if fostering or adopting a child is a good choice for your family. The classes are taught by social workers with the Human Services Agency (HSA) and they are typically offered in the spring and fall of each year. All classes are free of charge but you must register in advance.