[spicedmama]

You don't have to have the classes if you are recognized as what the State determines to be "kin." I would encourage you to take the classes because it may assure that you receive potentially needed services for the kids now and/or in the future. They would recognize you as more than "kin," but as Foster Parents and/or Pre-Adoptive Parents. Feel free to send me a private message. I have little relatives from N.Y. with me here in my State, (not N.Y.), so I am familiar with some of their rules.

Peace