Module I of Preservice training provides an overview of the child welfare system and examines the differences between foster care, adoption, and kinship care. Participants receive information about the needs of waiting children as well as the process of becoming a foster or kinship caregiver or adoptive parent.

Module II of Preservice training discusses the history and goals of foster care, kinship care, and adoption and examines the role of foster and kinship caregivers and adoptive parents within the system. Emphasis is placed on the primary care team: the child, the foster or kinship caregiver or adoptive parent, the primary parent, and the agency caseworker. Participants become aware of strategies to use teams effectively to serve children and families.

Module III of Preservice training introduces the core concepts of early childhood development. Participants receive an overview of brain development and gain an awareness of the importance of attachment, self-regulation, and initiative to child development. Factors that enhance development are also addressed. 

Module IV of Preservice training helps participants understand how childhood trauma can affect development, including brain development, as well as emotions and behavior.

Examines the characteristics, symptoms and reporting standards for child abuse and neglect. Caution: contains graphic images 

Module VI of Preservice training addresses strategies caregivers and adoptive parents can use to help the child feel safe and accepted in their home and community. The importance of gathering background information and maintaining connections is stressed. 

Addresses strategies families can use to help the child feel safe and accepted in their home and community. The importance of gathering background information and maintaining connections is stressed.

Module VIII of Preservice training introduces foster and kinship caregivers and adoptive parents to strategies they can use to assist children in learning to manage their emotions and control their behaviors. 

Module IX of Preservice training presents a rationale for involvement of foster and kinship caregivers and adoptive parents in promoting connections to primary family members, particularly primary parents and siblings. The training encourages a non-judgmental approach to the caregiver’s or parent’s work with primary families to promote reunification. 

Module X of Preservice training examines the impact of foster care, kinship care, and adoption on individual members of the caregiving family as well as the impact on their relationships with one another. Participants are introduced to effective coping strategies to prevent against burnout and secondary traumatic stress. Communicable diseases and medication management are also addressed. 

Module XI of Preservice discusses adoption dynamics impacting families and adopted children. Participants will explore adoption from a developmental perspective as well as consider issues such as maintaining connections “openness” and sharing adoption-related information with the child. Post adoption services including subsidy are also discussed in this module. 

Participants are recommended to complete the Red Cross online training Adult, Child and Baby First Aid/CPR/AED to address the topic: A first aid and a child and adult CPR training program such as those training programs offered by the American Red Cross, the American Heart Association, or the equivalent.