I used to be a foster care social worker for CPS. Fostering is extremely hard and you have to be prepared to know reunification is always the ultimate goal and prepared to say goodbye. I had several foster parents who went in with the goal of adopting only to be heartbroken when the infants were reunified with relatives that were located later on. I would suggest seeking counseling as a family prior to fostering and having conversations with your children to prepare them for the process. Happy to answer questions if you have any.
My only advice or biggest advice I have is go to the classes every class you can find and sign up for.
Fostering is the hardest, but most rewarding thing I've ever done. Cons? - more messes, and diaper changes - The goodbyes. I highly recommend you and your husband seek out therapy before doing it. Maybe even get your kids in therapy. - you have to record everything, meds, scratches illness, clothing. - some social workers treat you like a babysitter, which basically you are. You have to get permission for just a out anything. - the trauma, even an infant, can take many years to show. 6 years later my now adopted son is diagnosed with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, Anxiety, and ADHD. Pros? - more kisses and snuggles! - You can be picky on what you will accept. Age, sex, religion, race, siblings, disabilities... - it can educate you on other cultures, if you have a placement of difference than yours. - you meet new people that you wouldn't normally associate with. If you'd like to discuss it more, I'd be happy to chat!