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Session 1

Orientation to Fundamentals of Foster and
Adoptive Parenting

Purpose
Objectives
Competencies

Purpose

Session One introduces you to each other, to the training program and to a general overview of the foster and adoptive parent role. We will begin looking at the concept of competencies and how it relates to personal development in the foster and adoptive parent. We will explore why children come into care and children’s concepts of why they are in foster care, examine some family stressors that may have contributed to the circumstances that brought the child into care, and view a video which follows a child from entry into care through adoption.


Objectives

Participants will:

  • Recognize the law related to mandated reporting of child abuse and neglect
  • Describe the concept of competencies and how it relates to personal development as a foster and adoptive parent
  • Identify the difference in perspective between children and adults as to why children come into care

 

Competencies

 

Interpersonal Sensitivity (3.3)

Demonstrates sensitivity to hidden meaning in communication and ability to view situations from others’ perspectives. A parent with strong interpersonal skills applies these to the child through respect for the preferences and uniqueness of each child and listening for the child’s concerns, while remembering what it was like to be a child. The parent applies these skills in other settings by demonstrating empathy with others’ perspectives and closely listening and watching for what is going on beneath the surface.

Commitment to Children (3.4)

Expresses care about the general welfare of children and has faith that children can be helped. This commitment is put into action in the home by providing the best care possible, including putting the child’s long-term interest before self-interest and showing pride when children achieve even small steps forward. This commitment is put into action outside the home by advocating strongly on issues important to children’s well being.

Technical Knowledge (3.5)

Demonstrates familiarity with policies, regulations, laws and judicial processes that pertain to child welfare, including the roles and responsibilities of all others involved with the child and the need for documentation. The parent’s technical knowledge is enhanced by the partnership with others that occurs in planning, family team meetings and foster family events. The parent knows how to seek information regarding these technical aspects of practice.

Self-Development (3.9)

Continually improves parenting skills through training and learning resources and reflection on experience. A commitment to self-development means a parent stays open to new information and actively seeks it.


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