Visits in child’s home state

Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC)
Visits in child’s home state

Before you schedule a visit with your child, be sure to clarify whether this a pre-placement visit, or if this is simply to see if this a potential match. You do not want to go thinking that this child is going to be placed with you, only to find out that you are one of several families being considered.

You will also want to clarify other details.

Where will you be staying?
How long is the visit intended to be?
Who is paying for transportation?
If you are paying, are the costs reimbursable?
How much time during the visit will you actually spend with your child?
Will the visit take place in the foster home, in a neutral location, or where you are staying?
Which family members are recommended to come along?

Once you are in the child’s home state, some things you may want to do are:

If the child is in school, visit the classroom and speak with the teacher.
Visit with medical professionals. Pediatrician, therapist, psychiatrist (if applicable).
If there will be contact with birth family members, arrange a visit with them.
Meet the child’s friends.
Meet any other caregivers, such as day care providers.
Give the child a disposable camera, and control over the pictures taken.

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Credits: Kelly L. Killian