Foster care is something many people feel called to but often aren’t sure where to begin. You may be wondering what the process looks like, who the children are, or whether fostering could realistically fit into your life. These questions are a natural part of the journey, and taking the time to explore them is an important first step. At Child Crisis Arizona, we believe that informed, supported families make the greatest impact—and it all starts with understanding what foster care truly involves.
To help answer some of the most common questions, we turned to Caitlin Wilson, Foster Care & Adoption Supervisor at Child Crisis Arizona. With over 10 years of experience walking alongside children and families, Caitlin brings both professional expertise and a deep understanding of what it takes to create safe, supportive homes for children in need. Here, she shares insight, guidance, and encouragement for anyone considering foster care.
What are the most common reasons children are placed in foster care?
Children enter foster care through no fault of their own. While neglect is the most common reason, it is often accompanied by other challenges such as parental substance use, exposure to domestic violence, or physical abuse. Inmost cases, it’s not just one issue, but a combination of circumstances that make it unsafe for a child to remain at home.
At the heart of every situation is a child who needs care, stability, and someone to show up for them.
How long do children typically stay in foster care?
A child’s time in foster care can vary greatly depending on their unique situation. Factors such as their age, the complexity of their case, and whether reunification is possible or if the plan shifts to adoption, all play a role in how long they remain in care.
Some children may stay with a foster family for only a few days before transitioning to relatives, while others may remain in care for several years.
Each case is different, and the ultimate goal is always to find a safe, permanent home, whether that’s reunification with family or adoption.
Can I foster if I work full-time or already have children at home?
Absolutely! We have foster parents that work full-time, have children of their own, and are single or married. What is important is having a reliable childcare plan, strong support system, and flexibility to meet the needs of the foster children. We encourage families to speak with their employers to discuss flexibility and FMLA. Open communication is also key, especially for families with children at home, so everyone understands the important role they play in supporting a child in care.
What would you say to someone who feels called to foster but isn’t sure they’re “ready”?
One of the best ways to learn more is by attending a Meet & Greet. These sessions provide an overview of the process, requirements, and what to expect and give you the chance to ask questions in a welcoming, low-pressure environment.
You may also hear from current or former foster parents, whose real-life experiences can offer valuable insight and reassurance. Our Meet & Greets are offered twice a month both virtually as well as in-person meetings once a quarter. We encourage you to start by filling out our online inquiry form to attend a Meet & Greet. This allows us to share more information, connect with you directly, and begin supporting you as you explore your foster care journey.
What advice would you give to prospective foster and adoptive families?
Start by identifying your support system and don’t be afraid to lean on it. Whether that’s friends, family, or your licensing agency, having people you can turn to makes all the difference.
Take time to learn about trauma and how it impacts children, and approach the journey with patience and flexibility. At Child Crisis Arizona, we also offer free parenting classes and specialized trainings focused on healing trauma to help caregivers feel more prepared and supported along the way.
And just as importantly, give yourself grace. Foster care isa meaningful and rewarding experience, but it’s also a learning process.
Every child deserves to feel safe, supported, and cared for, and foster families make that possible every day.
Join one of our upcoming Meet & Greet sessions to learn more, connect with our team, and hear from families who have been where you are now.
View upcoming Meet & Greet dates and start your journey today.
Caitlin has spent over a decade working in foster care and six years supporting families and children at Child Crisis Arizona. Born and raised in Glendale, Arizona, Caitlin brings both heart and experience to her role, and she often says the most meaningful part of her work is witnessing happy endings and walking alongside families through some of their most important moments. With a background in psychology and an unexpected path into foster care, she quickly discovered this work was exactly where she was meant to be. Today, she finds deep fulfillment in collaborating with her team and celebrating the resilience of children and families, especially moments like when foster and biological families come together in support of a child’s healing and future.
