Training Structure

Who Should Attend?

• Child welfare professionals
• Case managers and supervisors
• Foster care and kinship care specialists
• Behavioral health professionals
• Educators and school personnel
• Community service providers
• Law Enforcement
• Family Court Judges
• Anyone supporting children and families involved in kinship care

Learning Outcomes

• Understand the unique needs and strengths of kinship families.
• Recognize the impact of family dynamics, trauma, and system involvement.
• Apply practical strategies to support kinship caregivers and children.
• Navigate community and child-serving systems more effectively.
• Promote stability, permanency, and well-being for children in kinship care.

Training Modules

Unit 1: History, Vision, and Trust

• Explore the history and evolution of kinship care.
• Understand the vision and values that support kinship families.
• Learn the importance of trust-building with caregivers and children.

Unit 2: Roles and Responsibilities

• Examine the various roles of kinship caregivers and professionals.
• Clarify responsibilities and expectations within kinship care arrangements.

Unit 3: Role Shifts in Family Dynamics

• Understand how family relationships change when children enter kinship care.
• Identify strategies to support healthy family functioning and communication.

Unit 4: Immediate Considerations

• Review critical needs and considerations during the initial stages of kinship placement.
• Learn approaches to support stability and well-being for children and caregivers.

Unit 5: System Navigation

• Gain knowledge of child welfare, educational, healthcare, and community systems.
• Develop skills to help caregivers access resources and supports.

Unit 6: Clinical Considerations

• Explore the impact of trauma, loss, attachment, and behavioral health concerns.
• Learn practical approaches to supporting children and families through a trauma-informed lens.