PURPOSE: This rule explains who can qualify to be a foster parent. It gives the health requirements, standards of living and marital status required.

1. (1) Age of Foster Parent(s). Applicant(s) shall not receive a license when both are younger than twenty-one (21). 13 CSR 40-60 ,

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2. (2) Personal Qualifications Required of Foster Parent(s). Foster parent(s) shall be responsible, mature individuals of reputable character who exercise sound judgment, display the capacity to provide good care for children and display the motivation to foster.

3. (3) Health of Foster Family.

   1. (A) At the time of application for an initial license, foster parents shall authorize their physician to submit a statement on a prescribed form, regarding his/her opinion of the mental health of each foster family member and certifying that a physical examination was completed within the past year and that the foster family members were free from communicable disease. A TB test and/or chest X-ray shall be completed, if recommended by the physician.
   2. (B) Foster parents and all foster family members must be determined by a physician to be in good physicial and mental health. The licensing agency shall review the examination repOtiS.
   3. (C) After initial iicensure, if the licensing agency has reason to question the physical or mental health of any member of the foster family, the agency shall require a new mental or physical examination.
4. (4) Foster Parent Training-Preservice Training. Completion of at least twelve (12) hours per year of agency training is required of each adult individual prior to licensure.

5. (5) Parenting Skills Information Elicited in the Homestudy.

   1. (A) Foster parent structures environment so that it is safe and healthy for the child.
   2. (B) Foster parent expressespositivefeelings toward the child verbally and physically.
   3. (C) Foster parent recognizes and responds appropriately to the child’s verbal and physical expressions of needs and wants.
   4. (D) Foster parent consistently uses basic behavior management techniques in dealing with the child.
   5. (E) Foster parent consistently uses appro. priate techinques to discipline the child and refrains from corporal punishment.
   6. (F) Foster parent guides the child toward increasing independence.
   7. (G) Foster parent behaves in a way that recognizes the immaturity of the child. Auth: sections 210.221 and 210.486, RSMo (1986J. Original rule filed May 10, 1978, effectiue Sept. 11, 1978. Amended: Filed Dec. 14, 1982, effectiue March 11, 1983. Amended: Filed June 28, 1983, effectiue NW. 11, 1983. Emergency amendment f&d Dec. 19, 1984, effective Dec. 29, 1984, expired April 19, 1985. Amended: F&d Dec. 19, 1984, effective 13 CSR40-60-SOCIALSERVICES

   April 11, 1985. Amended: Filed June 2, 1988, effectiue Aug. 25,19&V.