This handbook outlines essential information for foster parents under these basic headings: (1) legal rights and responsibilities of children, parents and foster parents; (2) recruitment, licensing, training, and evaluation of foster homes; (3) placement and removal of foster children; (4) payments and expenses; (5) medical care; (6) confidentiality and family contracts; (7) agency and community resources; (8) education and religion; and (9) complaints and grievances about agency services and foster homes. Appendices include information related to foster home standards, study and evaluation; and lists of the responsibilities and duties of the juvenile court, guardianship administrator, field/casework staff, and foster parent or custodial institution. (ED)