In the collaborative pursuit of addressing the comprehensive needs of youth in foster care and their families, the Pathways to Permanency project has given rise to a powerful tool – the “FosteringNC Developmental Effects of Trauma Facilitator’s Guide". Developed in tandem with Vaya, County DSS offices, and mental health providers, this guide stands as a testament to Vaya’s commitment to addressing critical needs related to the foster care experience.
The Pathways to Permanency Project
The Pathways to Permanency project aims to develop solutions to address vital needs that were unveiled during multi-sector focus groups conducted at the initiation of this project. These focus groups revealed concerns related to the lack of shared understanding across systems, access to quality behavioral health assessments, and the need for more nurturing and supportive homes for youth in foster care. To tackle the issue of unplanned disruptions in foster care placements, the “Recruitment and Retention” workgroup zeroed in on a pivotal area, which was: caregivers’ lacking realistic expectations for youth in care due to a general lack of knowledge on developmentally appropriate behaviors and trauma.
To bridge this knowledge gap, the workgroup crafted the "FosteringNC Developmental Effects of Trauma Facilitator’s Guide," a complement to the existing "Child Development and the Effects of Trauma" curriculum developed by FosteringNC. This guide serves as a valuable resource for in-service training. Aiming to transform the original self-paced version of the curriculum to one that is better suited for group settings and enhanced engagement among foster parents.
Key Features of the Guide
- Applicable to an Array of Caregivers: The Facilitator's Guide is a comprehensive companion, equipping facilitators with discussion points, questions, and activities designed to elevate the training experience. With a focus on participant engagement, the guide includes a study guide to help attendees navigate the material effectively. This versatile training, lasting approximately two hours, caters to foster parents, kinship providers, and caregivers, ensuring they grasp the foundations of childhood development, trauma, and brain development.
- Versatility in Delivery: Whether conducted virtually or in person, the training facilitated by the guide offers flexibility. Its thoughtful design enables facilitators to adapt to diverse learning environments, promoting accessibility and participation.
- Increasing Engagement and Learning: By providing a structured framework, the guide empowers facilitators to delve deeper into the curriculum. Through thought-provoking discussion points, interactive questions, and engaging activities, the training becomes an immersive experience for attendees. The participant study guide serves as a valuable takeaway, allowing individuals to revisit and reinforce their understanding independently.
This guide, developed by the Pathways to Permanency project, emerges as a crucial resource for improving engagement for foster parent in-service training. Its collaborative development reflects a commitment to addressing the specific needs identified by stakeholders and those with lived experience. As this guide becomes an integral part of the training landscape, it promises to enhance the knowledge, engagement, and preparedness of foster parents, ultimately contributing to more stable and supportive homes for youth in foster care.
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