The Foster and Kinship Care Education (FKCE) program, established in 1984, plays a vital role in preparing and supporting resource parents through comprehensive training. As an integral component of the child-centered Resource Family Approval process, FKCE offers essential classes and workshops designed to equip caregivers with the skills and knowledge necessary to nurture children in foster care.
These mandated training sessions cover a broad spectrum of critical topics. Participants gain valuable insights into the Child Protective and Probation Systems, understanding the cultural needs of children from diverse backgrounds, navigating relationships with birth parents, and addressing grief and loss. Furthermore, the program emphasizes trauma-informed care, providing behavioral support strategies for children impacted by traumatic experiences. Crucially, FKCE training addresses the long-term needs of children, focusing on permanence and their educational journeys within the foster care system.
FKCE program offerings extend beyond initial pre-approval and annual training mandates. Specialized skill-building areas are also addressed, including providing care and supervision for children with special health care needs. Recognizing the diverse needs within California’s foster care system, FKCE also provides training on the Indian Child Welfare Act and best practices for caring for commercially exploited children. To ensure accessibility, FKCE classes and workshops are available both in-person and online, with program availability varying by college to reach a wide range of resource families. The program also caters to special populations, offering classes for participants who are English language learners and ensuring ADA compliant classes are available.
The success and reach of the Foster and Kinship Care Education program are strengthened through collaborative partnerships. Working closely with the California Department of Social Services, a dedicated state advisory committee, county departments of social services, and various foster care stakeholders across the state, FKCE ensures its training remains relevant and impactful. This collaborative approach underscores the essential role Foster and Kinship Care Education plays in addressing the complex and multifaceted needs of foster children throughout California.
For those seeking a Foster and Kinship Care Education program in their vicinity, the Foster and Kinship Care Participating Colleges webpage provides a comprehensive list of participating institutions. For further inquiries or additional information about the program, please reach out via email to [email protected].
