how many children are in the foster care system
On September 30, 2004, 518,000 children were in the U.S. foster care system. Most children are placed in foster care temporarily due to parental abuse or neglect. A record 304,000 children entered the system in 2004, according to one study. Much of the rise was due to methamphetamine use.
Maximum of 6 children in foster care, unless a sibling group larger than 6.  No more than 2 children under the age of 24 months unless they are siblings.  There are no requirements regarding the total number of children in the home to. include the birth or adopted children of the foster parents.  There are no standards regarding the number of special needs children in the home.