Verified: October 2026
"Foster parent" doesn't mean just one thing. Here are the forms of foster care found across Canada — exact names vary by province.
The "classic" placement: a child lives with you medium- or long-term while their family situation evolves. The most common form.
You're available quickly when a child must be removed from their home immediately. Short placements, sometimes days or weeks.
You temporarily care for another foster family's child — a weekend, a holiday — giving them a break. A great way to start gently.
A grandparent, aunt, uncle, or significant person cares for the child. Across Canada this is the legal priority: extended family first.
Recognized notably in Ontario: in Indigenous communities, a child is placed according to the community's customs and traditions, outside the formal approval system.
For children with complex needs (trauma, behavioural challenges, medical needs). Extra training and support — and often higher compensation.
A Quebec program: you foster a child with the possibility of adopting them if they become eligible for adoption. Quebec's foster-to-adopt track.
Not sure what would fit you? Respite is an excellent entry point: limited commitment, real experience. Emergency care suits very available people. Talk to your area's body — use our lookup tool.