Coaching and Counseling (1.2)

Provides a consistent and well-coordinated household by establishing house rules and routines and clearly communicating the expectation that everyone in the family will follow them. To organize a household efficiently is to include others in major decisions, establish ground rules with clear consequences and ensure that all the needs of household members are taken into consideration.

Family Relationships (1.4)

Respects and maintains a child’s ties to birth family and previous foster and/or adoptive family relationships. Understands the importance of visitation including how to prepare children for visits with their families and support them. Is familiar with the dynamics of family systems and how all family members are impacted by the foster/adoptive placement experience.

Basic Behavior Management (2.1)

Understands and applies basic principles of behavior management that use appropriate techniques to reduce negative behavior and encourage positive behaviors without the use of physical discipline. Positive behaviors are encouraged by recognition of progress and allowing developmentally appropriate decision-making, while setting and communicating limits and rewards that apply to all. Basic behavior management consists of fair and consistent application of behavior rules and recognition of appropriate and positive behavior. Negative behaviors are discouraged by firm, fair and consistent application of limits and rules.

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.

Equilibrium (3.7)

Knows and understands own feelings and recognizes own limitations. A sense of equilibrium allows the parent to maintain a positive outlook and to know he or she must set aside quiet time for self-regeneration and to nurture adult relationships. To restore a sense of equilibrium, it may be necessary to seek new information.

Human Development (4.1)

Demonstrates familiarity with the principles of developmental process, including sexual development and developmental disabilities. A full, working knowledge of human development includes knowledge of stages and milestones expected for children and, causes and treatment for delays.

Health Issues (4.2)

Demonstrates knowledge of medical/health conditions that can result from abuse/neglect and demonstrates appropriate health practices in the home. A full, working knowledge of health issues would include principles of nutrition and hygiene and basic emergency care.

Physical/Sexual Abuse (5.1)

Demonstrates knowledge of the types of family situations that can lead to abuse and the effects of abuse. A full, working knowledge of physical and sexual abuse would include being able to recognize the signs and symptoms of abuse and how to respond.

Substance Abuse (5.2)

Demonstrates knowledge of the signs of substance/alcohol abuse and the effects of abuse on the family system, including substance-exposed infants. A full working knowledge of substance abuse issues would include the ability to identify ways to work with children affected by substance abuse and how the recovery process impacts the family.