On the Threshold of Change: Forces That Could Transform Future Conditions for Youth in Extended Foster Care (EFC), a report by the Institute for the Future, the Youth Law Center, and the California Youth

Report Uses Strategic Foresight to Explore the Future Conditions of Young Adults Exiting Foster Care

<a href="https://www.ylc.org/on-the-threshold-of-change/" rel="nofollow">On the Threshold of Change: Forces That Could Transform Future Conditions for Youth in Extended Foster Care (EFC)</a>, a report by the Institute for the Future, the Youth Law Center, and the California Youth Connection, uses strategic foresight to present a forward-thinking vision for transforming extended foster care (EFC) in the United States. The report&#39;s executive summary describes this strategic foresight as &#34;a set of tools, processes, and research methodologies designed to bring discipline, creativity, and imagination to how we reinvent and plan for the long-term future.&#34;
The report outlines the historical context of EFC, starting from Congress&#39;s authorization in 2008 for states to extend foster care to age 21. While this shift was intended to provide a safety net for youth in foster care, data from the past decade reveal persistent challenges, including homelessness, incarceration, and health issues among EFC participants.
The report identifies challenging realities facing youth in foster care today, such as family inequity, racial injustice, economic inequality, climate crises, the digital divide, and social volatility. It calls for systemic changes to address these challenges and presents four transformational future forces that could reshape EFC by 2035: equitable transition, restorative care, relational design, and computational advantage. These forces envision a system that provides universal access to stable housing, financial security, holistic health care, nurturing family ties, and digital literacy.
Key insights emphasize the importance of prioritizing loving relationships, financial security, and holistic well-being for youth in EFC. The report advocates shifting the focus from avoiding adverse outcomes to promoting comprehensive well-being and life fulfillment. It emphasizes the need to co-create the future of EFC with young people and leverage partnerships across sectors to build a supportive network anchored in communities.
Ultimately, the report calls for collective action to shape a future where youth in EFC have the resources, support, and opportunities to thrive, emphasizing the importance of centering youth voices and fostering inclusive collaboration.
In addition to the <a href="https://www.ylc.org/resource/on-the-threshold-of-change-report/" rel="nofollow">full report</a> and <a href="https://www.ylc.org/resource/on-the-threshold-of-change-executive-summary/" rel="nofollow">executive summary</a>, there is a short <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v&#61;W637F5efiY8" rel="nofollow">companion film</a> and an hour-long <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v&#61;qJLQh8HWv5M" rel="nofollow">recorded virtual conversation</a>.

May 2024

It’s May and National Foster Care Month (NFCM), a time dedicated to raising awareness about the important role people in all areas of child welfare play in supporting children, youth, and families. This

It’s May and National Foster Care Month (NFCM), a time dedicated to raising awareness about the important role people in all areas of child welfare play in supporting children, youth, and families. This year&#39;s NFCM theme—&#34;Engaging Youth. Building Supports. Strengthening Opportunities.&#34;—highlights the need to create a child welfare system that authentically engages and supports young people who are preparing to leave foster care.
Every year, the Children’s Bureau, in collaboration with Child Welfare Information Gateway and other partners, develops a dedicated campaign website that includes a variety of resources, stories, and outreach tools related to the year’s theme. Here are some key highlights of the 2024 website:
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;"><li>Information <a href="https://www.childwelfare.gov/fostercaremonth/about/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">about NFCM</a>, including FAQs, the Children’s Bureau&#39;s NFCM message, and lists of Children’s Bureau partners and projects</li><li>New, real-life stories added to the <a href="https://www.childwelfare.gov/fostercaremonth/reflections-stories-foster-care/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Reflections: Stories of Foster Care</a> series</li><li><a href="https://www.childwelfare.gov/fostercaremonth/resources/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">NFCM resources</a> that emphasize this year’s theme</li><li>The official 2024 <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmNoaWxkd2VsZmFyZS5nb3YvcmVzb3VyY2VzL25hdGlvbmFsLWZvc3Rlci1jYXJlLW1vbnRoLW91dHJlYWNoLXRvb2xraXQvP3V0bV9jYW1wYWlnbj1uZmNtMjQmdXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPXRvb2xraXRDQjAzMjgyNCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAzMjguOTI1MDM5OTEifQ.nYdKn9KcyODDzhOX7CnnQbpCRGwax3vw8c7xUGD3EWo/s/2979813196/br/239740178175-l" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">outreach toolkit</a>, which provides a variety of free resources that amplify this year&#39;s theme, including the following:
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;"><li>The latest key facts and statistics on youth in foster care</li><li>NFCM virtual backgrounds for Zoom and Microsoft Teams</li><li>Themed graphics and GIFs (options available in Spanish)</li><li>Sample social media posts, outreach messages, and proclamations</li></ul>
</li></ul>
Visit the <a href="https://www.childwelfare.gov/fostercaremonth/" rel="nofollow">NFCM campaign website</a> to learn more about the importance of engaging youth and helping them leave care with strengthened relationships, concrete supports, and opportunities.

A recent survey conducted by Child Trends for the Annie E. Casey Foundation sheds light on the evolving landscape of kinship care policies across states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. To be

Analysis From a State-by-State Survey of Kinship Care Policies

A recent survey conducted by Child Trends for the Annie E. Casey Foundation sheds light on the evolving landscape of kinship care policies across states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. To be released in a five-part series of briefs throughout early 2024, the survey reveals increasing efforts by jurisdictions to promote kinship care and support caregivers involved with the child welfare system. In 2022, Child Trends surveyed state child welfare administrators from 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, with 46 completing the survey.
This <a href="https://www.aecf.org/resources/family-ties" rel="nofollow">executive summary</a> offers survey highlights, including the five policy areas the series will examine, general trends in policy content and implementation, and recommendations for policymakers. The survey&#39;s recommendations focus on increased investment, data collection, and input from families with lived experience, as well as tools to help implement the new federal rule on kin-specific licensing.
The findings underscore states&#39; growing reliance on placing children with relatives. They also highlight the urgent need to address disparities in assistance and services available to kinship caregivers. While progress has been made in promoting supported placements with kin, the analysis reveals that financial assistance and support services are often not needs-based, disadvantaging caregivers who are unable to meet licensing requirements.
New opportunities emerge with the U.S. Administration for Children and Families&#39; September 2023 <a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2023/09/28/2023-21081/separate-licensing-or-approval-standards-for-relative-or-kinship-foster-family-homes" rel="nofollow">rule</a>, allowing child welfare agencies to simplify the approval process for relative foster parents and access federal title IV-E foster care funds. This rule mandates states to provide licensed or approved kinship caregivers with the same financial assistance as nonrelative foster parents, presenting a significant shift in policy.
The survey&#39;s findings can inform policymakers in responding to these new opportunities, enhancing efforts to reduce barriers to licensing and increase support for kinship caregivers. The series will provide an indepth examination of state policies on kinship caregiving, covering areas such as licensure of kinship foster parents, support for unlicensed caregivers, kinship diversion policies, agency engagement with kinship caregivers, and the inclusion of kinship care families&#39; perspectives in policy design.
Read the executive summary, <a href="https://www.aecf.org/resources/family-ties" rel="nofollow">&#34;Family Ties: Analysis From a State-by-State Survey of Kinship Care Policies.&#34;</a> The policy data and analysis will be released as a five-part series throughout early 2024.

The latest data from the Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System (AFCARS) are now available. According to the report, the number of children in foster care has decreased for the fourth consecutive

New Data Show Fewer Children in Foster Care for the Fourth Year in a Row

The latest data from the Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System (AFCARS) are now available. According to the report, the number of children in foster care has decreased for the fourth consecutive year. The Family First Prevention Services Act has been instrumental in shifting the focus toward preventing foster care placements and preserving families.
Other notable data from the current report, which presents data from fiscal year (FY) 2022, include the following:
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li>The number of children in foster care for FY 2022 decreased by nearly 6 percent compared to FY 2021, a greater decrease than FY 2021’s nearly 4-percent decrease relative to FY 2020.</li><li>The number of children in foster care at the end of FY 2022 was 368,500, compared to 392,000 children in foster care at the end of FY 2021.</li><li>The number of children exiting foster care has decreased compared to last year (from 214,500 in FY 2021 to 201,400 in FY 2022). Since 2020, the number of children exiting foster care has outpaced the number of children entering foster care. </li></ul>
State and tribal title IV-E agencies are required to report AFCARS case-level information on all children in foster care and on children who have been adopted and have had title IV-E agency involvement. The way AFCARS data is collected changed significantly at the start of FY 2023. Changes include the type of data collected and the format of the data submissions. The data are intended to help policymakers at the federal, tribal, and state levels assess how many children are in foster care, the reasons they entered care, and how they exited care, as well as to develop strategies to prevent unnecessary out-of-home placements. The AFCARS report also provides information about the children who are removed from their homes, their placement details, and foster or adoptive parents. 
To view the complete AFCARS report for FY 2022, visit the <a title="Children&#39;s Bureau website" href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/cb/report/afcars-report-30" rel="nofollow">Children&#39;s Bureau website</a>. Read the <a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/media/press/2024/new-data-shows-consistent-decrease-children-foster-care" rel="nofollow">press release</a> for more information about AFCARS report #30 and additional trends in data.

Written by Associate Commissioner Aysha E. Schomburg Twenty-four years ago, almost to the day, I was working at a certain organization in New York when I was offered my first job in child welfare. I didn’t

Ten Toes Down, A Message From Aysha E. Schomburg

Written by Associate Commissioner Aysha E. Schomburg
Twenty-four years ago, almost to the day, I was working at a certain organization in New York when I was offered my first job in child welfare. I didn’t know a whole lot about child welfare as a profession at the time, but I knew about foster care. I knew that even when it was necessary, it was not good. I didn’t understand as much as I do now about the nuances—the extreme consequences of family separation—but I did understand that there were children in need. I was curious about the position, but I wasn’t sure if I was ready to take that professional leap. I called my mom and asked her, “what should I do?” I always sought guidance from my mom when I needed to make a big decision and she always knew exactly what to say. For much of my life, she might have known me better than I knew myself. Without hesitation, she replied, “Aysha, go where you are needed most.” It was after that conversation that I accepted the job.
Now, here I am, 24 years later, more committed, and more determined than ever before and, frankly, still following her advice. What on earth could be more important than supporting children and families when they need it? I can’t think of one thing. Now, as professionals, we know so much more about listening to what children, young adults, and families need than we did when I accepted that job so many years ago. We value lived experience and true collaboration. We understand foster care is a last resort and we know for sure, we cannot prevent it alone. We need all hands—education, housing, family assistance, health systems, philanthropy. As professionals when we say prevention takes a village—we mean we must live harmoniously with the other villagers. To do it right, our work requires unprecedented commitment to serving families, wholly and holistically. I have been fortunate to have found my purpose in life the day I followed my mother’s advice. I have lived a purpose driven life in complete service of children and families; I do it with love in my heart, and I am fortunate to have never known regret. There’s so much more to do, I keep challenging myself to level up. I firmly believe that as long as we are breathing, we can evolve. I also believe that the path to evolution is a choice. The universe set me up to evolve when I accepted this challenge. It swung the door wide open, and I walked through it and stayed for 3 solid years. In certain belief systems, three represents understanding, which is attained through knowledge and wisdom. During our time, the Children’s Bureau has advanced in each of these qualities, which has led to unprecedented accomplishments. It has truly been an honor to serve you, and to serve this nation, in this way. Evolution, if you choose it, is constant. I can hear my mother’s voice telling me that now it is time for me to go where I am needed most. So, I will go. And while evolution requires change over time, my purpose remains fixed. I will continue with my service to children and families. Assuredly, my service is my purpose and, wherever I go, I will always lean in on it with unparalleled love, ten toes down.

The Children's Bureau website hosts information on child welfare programs, funding, monitoring, training and technical assistance, laws, statistics, research, federal reporting, and much more. The following

The Children&#39;s Bureau website hosts information on child welfare programs, funding, monitoring, training and technical assistance, laws, statistics, research, federal reporting, and much more. 
The following list includes recent additions or updates to the Children’s Bureau site and a selection of recent items from the Administration for Children and Families:
Children’s Bureau: 
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li><a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/cb/policy-guidance/pi-24-05" rel="nofollow">PI-24-05: Availability of Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Funds Under the Community-Based Grants for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect Program Created by Title II of the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA) as Amended by Public Law (P.L.) 115-271</a></li><li><a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/cb/policy-guidance/pi-24-06" rel="nofollow">PI-24-06: Availability of Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Children&#39;s Justice Act Grants to States Under the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA) as Amended by Public Law (P.L.) 115-271</a></li><li><a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/cb/report/afcars-report-30" rel="nofollow">AFCARS Report #30</a></li><li><a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/cb/training-technical-assistance/overview-afcars-nprm" rel="nofollow">Overview of the Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System Notice of Proposed Rulemaking</a></li><li><a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/cb/report/trends-foster-care-adoption" rel="nofollow">Trends in Foster Care and Adoption: FY 2013–2022</a></li><li><a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/cb/report/wisconsin-nytd-report-2023" rel="nofollow">Wisconsin National Youth in Transition Database Review Final Report (2023)</a></li></ul>
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li>FY 2024 Discretionary Grant Forecasts and Notices of Funding Opportunities (NOFOs)*:
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="circle"><li><a title="https://grants.gov/search-results-detail/351099" href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZ3JhbnRzLmdvdi9zZWFyY2gtcmVzdWx0cy1kZXRhaWwvMzUxMDk5P3V0bV9jYW1wYWlnbj1ub2ZvZnkyNCZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Tm9mb2ZvcmVjYXN0MDIyMjI0IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMi45MDY1NTM2MSJ9.FF4watu4KxJaxkgdKg_Fn3gmLx2fWH80XYBpzICxmWE/s/2979813196/br/237574295686-l" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">The National Center for Tribal Child Welfare Innovation and Advancement (HHS-2024-ACF-ACYF-CZ-0067)</a></li><li><a title="https://grants.gov/search-results-detail/351102" href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZ3JhbnRzLmdvdi9zZWFyY2gtcmVzdWx0cy1kZXRhaWwvMzUxMTAyP3V0bV9jYW1wYWlnbj1ub2ZvZnkyNCZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Tm9mb2ZvcmVjYXN0MDIyMjI0IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMi45MDY1NTM2MSJ9.BElFJ_TkhZiatflb_Wntun2oxisjEtSBNJOo0bcKk3Q/s/2979813196/br/237574295686-l" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">National Child Welfare Center for Court Innovation and Advancement (HHS-2024-ACF-ACYF-CZ-0066)</a></li><li><a title="https://grants.gov/search-results-detail/349741" href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZ3JhbnRzLmdvdi9zZWFyY2gtcmVzdWx0cy1kZXRhaWwvMzQ5NzQxP3V0bV9jYW1wYWlnbj1ub2ZvZnkyNCZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Tm9mb2ZvcmVjYXN0MDIyMjI0IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMi45MDY1NTM2MSJ9.kETpz3UAhba5aMJNQDN3nC0GA_Ho4a8cb2uAbiOj3Ho/s/2979813196/br/237574295686-l" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">National Resource Center for Community-Based Child Abuse Prevention (HHS-2024-ACF-ACYF-CZ-0052)</a></li><li><a title="https://grants.gov/search-results-detail/349737" href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZ3JhbnRzLmdvdi9zZWFyY2gtcmVzdWx0cy1kZXRhaWwvMzQ5NzM3P3V0bV9jYW1wYWlnbj1ub2ZvZnkyNCZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Tm9mb2ZvcmVjYXN0MDIyMjI0IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMi45MDY1NTM2MSJ9.1COyHIKU_3XFf7ee0JKhXM9kaKyO4yMPLgd7RnM5WS8/s/2979813196/br/237574295686-l" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Quality Improvement Center on Helplines and Hotlines (HHS-2024-ACF-ACYF-CA-0022)</a></li><li><a title="https://grants.gov/search-results-detail/349757" href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZ3JhbnRzLmdvdi9zZWFyY2gtcmVzdWx0cy1kZXRhaWwvMzQ5NzU3P3V0bV9jYW1wYWlnbj1ub2ZvZnkyNCZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Tm9mb2ZvcmVjYXN0MDIyMjI0IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMi45MDY1NTM2MSJ9.7b7dpsuX8Da70mi9PdAkG-g6vHhXVtw8ljNZi6e7CB0/s/2979813196/br/237574295686-l" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Tribal Court Improvement Program (HHS-2024-ACF-ACYF-CS-0053)</a> </li></ul>
</li></ul>
 Administration for Children and Families:
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li><a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/equity/health-equity-factsheet" rel="nofollow">ACF Healthy Equity Factsheet</a></li><li><a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/opre/newsletter/oprenewsletter/next-generation-behavioral-science-interventions-lessons-two-tanf" rel="nofollow">Behavioral Buzz March 2024—Next-Generation Behavioral Science Interventions: Lessons From Two TANF Agencies</a></li><li><a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/opre/report/concept-mapping-engage-individuals-lived-experience-example-developing-measure" rel="nofollow">Concept Mapping to Engage Individuals With Lived Experience: An Example From Developing a Measure of Reflective Supervision in Home Visiting</a></li><li><a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/opre/report/diapers-families-need-overview-federally-funded-approaches-diaper-distribution" rel="nofollow">Diapers for Families in Need: An Overview of Federally Funded Approaches to Diaper Distribution</a></li><li><a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/opre/report/family-and-staff-well-being-head-start-faces-programs-fall-2021-2021-2022-study" rel="nofollow">Family and Staff Well-Being in Head Start FACES Programs in Fall 2021: The 2021–2022 Study</a></li><li><a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/faq/grants-faqs" rel="nofollow">Grants FAQs</a></li><li><a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/opre/toolkit/instruments-measure-youth-engagement-and-facilitator-quality-toolkit-sexual-risk" rel="nofollow">Instruments That Measure Youth Engagement and Facilitator Quality: A Toolkit for Sexual Risk Avoidance Education (SRAE) Grant Recipients</a></li><li><a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/opre/training-technical-assistance/overview-aian-faces-video-series" rel="nofollow">Overview and Uses of AIAN FACES: A Video Series</a></li><li><a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/opre/report/snapshots-2020-healthy-marriage-and-responsible-fatherhood-grant-recipients" rel="nofollow">Snapshots of the 2020 Healthy Marriage and Responsible Fatherhood Grant Recipients: Characteristics and Progress During the First Two Grant Years</a></li><li><a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/media/press/2024/new-data-shows-consistent-decrease-children-foster-care" rel="nofollow">New Data Shows a Consistent Decrease of Children in Foster Care</a> [Press release]</li><li><a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/media/press/2024/readout-acf-national-call-action-equity" rel="nofollow">Readout of ACF National Call to Action on Equity</a> [Press release]</li><li><a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/media/press/2024/head-start-changes-serve-more-children-tribal-communities-farmworkers" rel="nofollow">Two Head Start Changes to Serve More Children in Tribal Communities and Children of Agricultural Workers</a> [Press release]</li><li><a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/blog/2024/03/acf-has-simplified-our-notices-funding-opportunities" rel="nofollow">“ACF has simplified Our Notices of Funding Opportunities!”</a> [The Family Room blog]</li></ul>
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li><a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/opre/blog/2024/03/are-insights-generated-ai-form-evidence" rel="nofollow">“Are Insights Generated by AI a Form of Evidence?”</a> [OPRE Insights blog]</li><li><a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/blog/2024/04/doing-things-differently-supporting-families-during-ncapm" rel="nofollow">“Doing Things Differently: Supporting Families During National Child Abuse Prevention Month”</a> [The Family Room blog]</li><li><a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/opre/blog/2024/04/evidence-action-how-do-we-establish-systems-support-evidence-use" rel="nofollow">“From Evidence to Action: How Do We Establish Systems to Support Evidence Use?”</a> [OPRE Insights blog]</li></ul>
Visit the <a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/cb" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Children&#39;s Bureau website </a>often to see what&#39;s new.
*Visit <a href="https://grants.gov/" rel="nofollow">grants.gov</a> for the latest information.

Written by Children's Bureau Division of State Systems staff Within the world of child welfare, foster parents (including those providing kinship and relative foster care) are often the unsung heroes in

Leveraging Technology to Empower Families: Supporting Foster Parents' Essential Role in Child Welfare

Written by Children&#39;s Bureau Division of State Systems staff
Within the world of child welfare, foster parents (including those providing kinship and relative foster care) are often the unsung heroes in the lives of many children and young adults. Sometimes, with little advance notice or under challenging circumstances, these special individuals choose to provide a safe home to a child or youth in need of a stable environment.
What motivates some people to become foster parents, and how can we learn from their experiences? Let’s explore the pivotal role of foster parents and see how technology can better enhance their impact and our knowledge.
Why do some people foster children?
The path to becoming a foster parent is generally paved with purpose, good intentions, and a genuine concern for children. Becoming a foster parent is usually a decision made through the lens of compassion for others and the sincere desire to make a difference in ways such as the following:
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;"><li>Being a voice for a vulnerable person</li><li>Changing the course of someone’s life</li><li>Watching a child grow mentally, emotionally, and socially</li><li>Providing a temporary shelter or safe haven</li><li>Offering caring family experiences</li><li>Teaching a child how to deal with life’s joys and challenges</li></ul>
How can technology help foster parents and agencies?
Today’s technology, information systems, and websites play an important role in supporting both foster parents and child welfare agencies.
For foster parents, including those providing kinship and relative foster care, current technology can help with these aspects:
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;"><li>Application process. Having access to user-friendly online platforms can simplify a foster parent’s application process. For example, an agency’s centralized portal might allow potential foster parents to submit their documents, track their application progress, and receive real-time status updates.</li><li>Training and education. Today’s technology can provide foster parents with training and instruction on relevant topics such as parenting techniques, child development, legal aspects, and other essential information. Additionally, this knowledge transfer can occur using various forms of technology, such as interactive modules, webinars, online courses, and videos.</li><li>Upcoming reminders. With mobile apps, foster parents can more easily receive reminders about their foster child’s medical appointments, court dates, school activities, or other important life events.</li><li>Support networks. Foster parents can also use technology to connect with their peers via online forums and request advice from virtual support groups.</li><li>Retention strategies. Technology can provide foster parents with access to ongoing training. Websites can offer educational resources on important topics such as behavioral management and self-care.</li></ul>
For agencies, technology can help with the following:
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;"><li>Finding suitable foster parents. For recruitment purposes, technology allows agencies to reach a wider audience via online platforms, focused foster parent campaigns, and social media. Websites can present success stories, dispel myths, and encourage potential foster parents to step forward.</li><li>Streamlining the approval process. An agency’s child welfare system can automate paperwork, track background checks, and facilitate needed training.</li><li>Placement efficiencies. Agencies might use automation to get information that helps with placement decisions or obtain information that a caseworker needs to improve placement stability.</li><li>Enabling real-time communications. Agencies can use websites and mobile apps to allow real-time communication channels between foster parents, caseworkers, and families of origin. By using these communication tools, activities such as updates, appointments, and progress reports can be shared more seamlessly.</li><li>Using data exchanges. Data exchange technology can help agencies do the following:</li></ul>
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;"><li style="list-style: none;">
<ul style="list-style-type: circle; list-style-position: inside;"><li>Support information collection processes to prevent data duplication</li><li>Allow private agencies or child welfare contributing agencies share information</li><li>Support safety through access to foster parent background checks</li><li>Provide efficiency when accessing information related to child welfare</li></ul>
</li></ul>
A foster parent’s dedication, resilience, and love can shape the lives of vulnerable children and youth. But most importantly, their impact will still be felt even when that child or youth leaves their care. By harnessing today’s technology, agencies can further empower these dedicated people to ensure brighter futures for children and youth in need.
 
Additional Resources:
<a href="https://capacity.childwelfare.gov/states/topics/foster-care-permanency/empowering-caregivers" rel="nofollow">Empowering Caregivers, Strengthening Families</a>, Capacity Building Center for States
<a href="https://www.aecf.org/topics/foster-care?msclkid&#61;f3300128694a1eb4487564d2580a3164&amp;utm_source&#61;bing&amp;utm_medium&#61;cpc&amp;utm_campaign&#61;Foster&#43;Care&#43;-&#43;Topics&amp;utm_term&#61;resources&#43;for&#43;foster&#43;parents&amp;utm_content&#61;Foster&#43;Parents" rel="nofollow">Foster Care</a>, Annie E. Casey Foundation
<a href="https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED616995.pdf" rel="nofollow">&#34;Foster Parent Perspectives on Necessary Supports for Youth and Their Families Departing Foster Care,&#34;</a> Journal of Social Work
<a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/cb/policy-guidance/im-20-03" rel="nofollow">Strengthening Technology Support for Recruitment, Approval, and Retention of Foster Homes</a> (ACYF-CB-IM-20-03 )

A new report from the Office of Planning, Research, and Evaluation describes modifying the mindfulness curriculum in each dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) module used with transition-age youth and young

Report on Modifying a Dialectical Behavior Therapy Mindfulness Curriculum for Transition-Age Youth in Foster Care

A new report from the Office of Planning, Research, and Evaluation describes modifying the mindfulness curriculum in each dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) module used with transition-age youth and young adults in foster care in Alameda County, CA. <a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/opre/report/modifying-dialectical-behavior-therapy-mindfulness-curriculum-implemented-transition" rel="nofollow">Modifying the Dialectical Behavior Therapy Mindfulness Curriculum Implemented With Transition-Age Youth and Young Adults in Foster Care</a> explains DBT used by the Youth Transitions Partnership (YTP), the modification process, and recommendations. YTP is a program of the Alameda County Social Services Agency, which receives funding from the multiphase Youth At-Risk of Homelessness (YARH) grant program, funded by the Children’s Bureau.
The Alameda County Social Services Agency conducted this mindfulness modification process to understand why some elements did not resonate with youth or were difficult for YTP coaches to facilitate. It also examined the differences youth and coaches perceived from the original and modified curriculum.
YTP evaluators used focus groups to understand the youth&#39;s perceptions of the curriculum before and after the modifications. This feedback, along with the insights from DBT practitioners and experts in mindfulness and meditation, was instrumental in modifying the cadence, framing, and structure of the sessions. The result was a modified curriculum that the youth found more engaging than the original, signaling a positive step forward. However, it was also noted that the curriculum could benefit from additional engagement and small-group activities instead of a lecture-like presentation, indicating further room for improvement.
Previously, the Alameda County Social Services Agency adjusted its DBT materials in YTP to make them more culturally inclusive and improve program attendance. Learn more about these changes in <a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/opre/report/lessons-field-adapting-dialectical-behavior-therapy-transition-age-youth-and-young" rel="nofollow">Adapting Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Transition-Age Youth and Young Adults in Foster Care</a>. For more information on how Alameda County&#39;s YTP revised its program enrollment materials to improve youth enrollment and early engagement, read <a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/opre/report/lessons-field-alameda-countys-youth-transitions-partnership-program-lessons-program" rel="nofollow">Alameda County&#39;s Youth Transitions Partnership Program: Lessons on Program Material Design</a>.
Related item: For more information about the YARH project and its lessons learned, read this <a href="https://cbexpress.acf.hhs.gov/article/2021/november/yarh-grant-recipients-experiences-engaging-youth-in-interventions-to-prevent-homelessness/123884031b92c150517620efe54bcb02" rel="nofollow">November 2021 article</a> in Children&#39;s Bureau Express.

The Administration for Children and Families (ACF), within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), published a press release about a proposed rule change. This proposed rule seeks to change

Proposed Rule for Additional Data Collection on American Indian/Alaska Native Youth Entering Out-of-Home Care

The Administration for Children and Families (ACF), within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), published a <a href="https://www.acf.hhs.gov/media/press/2024/hhs-announces-proposed-rule-requiring-states-collect-additional-information" rel="nofollow">press release</a> about a proposed rule change. This proposed rule seeks to change the information states submit to the Children&#39;s Bureau for the Adoption and Foster Care Analysis Reporting System (AFCARS). ACF uses the AFCARS data to provide national statistics on the child welfare population, monitor compliance with title IV-E and IV-B requirements, assist with budgeting, and more.
The purpose of the change is to increase the data collected on American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) children&#39;s status and experiences, which includes the following:
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li>Whether the state inquired if the child is an Indian child as defined in the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) </li><li>If the court determined that ICWA applies to the child</li><li>If the child&#39;s parent or Indian custodian was notified</li><li>If there were requests to transfer the case to tribal court</li><li>If placement preferences under ICWA were met</li><li>If the court determined there were active efforts</li></ul>
ACF currently receives limited information through AFCARS about which children should have ICWA protections. AI/AN children are overrepresented in child welfare and are at greater risk of maltreatment and placement in out-of-home care. Collecting this data could allow HHS, other federal agencies, and states to develop more informed and tailored policies, training, and technical assistance.
For more detailed information, explore the full <a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/02/23/2024-03373/adoption-and-foster-care-analysis-and-reporting-system" rel="nofollow">Notice of Proposed Rulemaking</a>. (Please note that the comment period has ended.)

The Child Welfare Measures Library, a new technical assistance resource, outlines the measures that grant recipients, their evaluators, and other child welfare professionals use to measure changes in child

Technical Assistance Resource Details Measures of Child and Family Well-Being and Outcomes 

The <a href="https://www.jbassoc.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Child-Welfare-Measures-Library.pdf" rel="nofollow">Child Welfare Measures Library</a>, a new technical assistance resource, outlines the measures that grant recipients, their evaluators, and other child welfare professionals use to measure changes in child and family outcomes. The tool, developed by James Bell Associates and sponsored by the Children’s Bureau, features 162 measures at three levels (child, family, and system). The measures span across 10 domains:
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;"><li>Child development</li><li>Family functioning</li><li>Healthy and wellness</li><li>Mental health and substance abuse</li><li>Organizational change</li><li>Parenting</li><li>Resilience</li><li>Social support</li><li>Trauma</li><li>Well-being</li></ul>
The Child Welfare Measures Library is organized into two sections to help users identify and learn more about the various measures. The first section lists all 162 measures in a table by domain, including a subset of 56 measures that are relevant to the well-being domain, which encompasses many areas. The second section features one-page descriptions of all 162 measures, listed alphabetically.
For each measure, the page includes the subject, domain, topic, description, whether the measure assesses well-being, links to additional information, references, and notes. The pages also include more detailed information about how the measure is administered, by whom, how long it takes, the cost, the age range, languages available, and more.
Explore the <a href="https://www.jbassoc.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Child-Welfare-Measures-Library.pdf" rel="nofollow">Child Welfare Measures Library</a> for more information.

Child Welfare Information Gateway, a service of the Children's Bureau, has updated two publications. Determining the Best Interests of the Child, part of the State Statutes series, provides a review of

Updated Publications From Child Welfare Information Gateway

Child Welfare Information Gateway, a service of the Children&#39;s Bureau, has updated two publications.
<a href="https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/determining-best-interests-child/" rel="nofollow">Determining the Best Interests of the Child</a>, part of the State Statutes series, provides a review of state laws about factors that must be considered when determining the best interests of a child in custody and care decisions. Generally, the term &#34;best interests&#34; does not have a standard definition. Some states will provide definitions while others will not have a standard definition—but it is generally understood as a legal concept. This publication lists the guiding principles of best interest determinations as well as considerations to take into account when making determinations. Summaries of laws on this topic for all individual states and U.S. territories are available on the <a href="https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/states-territories-tribes/" rel="nofollow">State, Territory, and Tribal Resources</a> webpage.
<a href="https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/leaving-your-child-home-alone/" rel="nofollow">Leaving Your Child Home Alone</a> (also updated and available <a href="https://www.childwelfare.gov/es/resources/los-hijos-solos-en-casa/" rel="nofollow">in Spanish</a>) is a factsheet offering guidance to help parents and caregivers decide whether to leave their child unsupervised at home. It includes information for foster parents about the reasonable and prudent parenting standard and explores several topics parents and caregivers should consider:
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li>State laws</li><li>Age and maturity</li><li>Circumstances</li><li>Safety skills</li><li>Youth babysitting other children</li><li>Communication</li></ul>
Parents and caregivers will find links to resources, general suggestions, and considerations that they can use to guide their decisions. The factsheet includes information to help prepare children and youth for the experience of being home alone and increase their comfort level.

The Children's Bureau funds several technical assistance centers to provide professionals with tools to better serve children, youth, and families. The following are some of the latest resources from these

Updates From the Children's Bureau's Training and Technical Assistance Partners

The Children&#39;s Bureau funds several technical assistance centers to provide professionals with tools to better serve children, youth, and families. The following are some of the latest resources from these partners.
Child Welfare Information Gateway
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li><a href="https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/determining-best-interests-child/" rel="nofollow">Determining the Best Interests of the Child</a></li><li><a href="https://www.childwelfare.gov/es/resources/los-hijos-solos-en-casa/" rel="nofollow">Los hijos solos en casa</a> (<a href="https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/leaving-your-child-home-alone/" rel="nofollow">Leaving Your Child Home Alone</a>)</li><li><a href="https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/reunification-foster-care-guide-parents/" rel="nofollow">Reunification From Foster Care: A Guide for Parents</a></li></ul>
Visit the <a href="https://www.childwelfare.gov/" rel="nofollow">Information Gateway website</a> for more.
 
Child Welfare Capacity Building Collaborative
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li>Center for Courts</li><li>Center for States
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="circle"><li><a href="https://capacity.childwelfare.gov/states/resources/cfsr-statewide-assessment-readiness-checklist-timelines-and-organization" rel="nofollow">CFSR Statewide Assessment Readiness Checklist, Timelines, and Organization</a></li><li><a href="https://capacity.childwelfare.gov/states/resources/c-i-practice-communications-planning" rel="nofollow">Change and Implementation in Practice: Communications Planning</a></li><li><a href="https://capacity.childwelfare.gov/states/resources/cwve-2024-flier" rel="nofollow">Child Welfare Virtual Expo (CWVE) 2024 Flier</a></li><li><a href="https://capacity.childwelfare.gov/virtualexpo?utm_medium&#61;email&amp;utm_source&#61;cwveinvite041624" rel="nofollow">Registration Open for the CWVE 2024</a></li></ul>
</li><li>Center for Tribes Tribal Information Exchange
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="circle"><li><a href="https://tribalinformationexchange.org/files/products/CenterforTribesPathtoPrevention.pdf?fbclid&#61;IwAR2_0PGSb6GZuXL2gr80vooEbQ8CsCrmosoD-aHiVrGMVy60x_ulpjNCnDM_aem_AZpKhOoGL7LhDVx5WAPlL4wYKuoRIpQLIT_-Bv6Sh0F-ZY1ub0Czoq8_HW8IQRY0e5min1ON1NkcyrQJw-5PUen4" rel="nofollow">Capacity Building Center for Tribes Path to Prevention</a></li><li><a href="https://tribalinformationexchange.org/files/products/CenterforTribesPreventionBrief.pdf?fbclid&#61;IwAR1b8VBzABh1VcXNhr1RluYMSYrSJNWJToE8WBJzZl0VSYBriNcp0yKXdcg_aem_AZoIy5vbj13xDmK-ouVTVQ2aSpExGFvAT4Vwldv3kHZgezZO5TbS7GpthkFzlM67cX0O5IMkWkfGA0slF8CnMN1m" rel="nofollow">Capacity Building Center for Tribes Prevention Brief</a></li><li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list&#61;PLR4JDLysJ7WNjHOmnxUuWMYTT1BrAAkcM" rel="nofollow">Tribal Child Welfare Data System Procurement Webinar Series</a>:
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v&#61;BNu5DUaGCX0&amp;list&#61;PLR4JDLysJ7WNjHOmnxUuWMYTT1BrAAkcM&amp;index&#61;1" rel="nofollow">“Part 1: Planning for a New Data System”</a> [Webinar recording]</li><li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v&#61;Mj6RlSo4NbQ" rel="nofollow">“Part 2:Procuring a Tribal Child Welfare Data System”</a> [Webinar recording]</li><li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v&#61;Zu5JeFEv53M" rel="nofollow">“Part 3: Contracting With Data System Vendors”</a> [Webinar recording]</li></ul>
</li></ul>
</li></ul>
Visit the <a href="https://capacity.childwelfare.gov/" rel="nofollow">Child Welfare Capacity Building Collaborative website</a> for more.
 
Children&#39;s Bureau Learning and Coordination Center (CBLCC)
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li><a href="https://cblcc.acf.hhs.gov/shareable-media/modules/2024-race-equity-challenge/?utm_medium&#61;email&amp;utm_source&#61;2024RaceEquityChallenge022024" rel="nofollow">Children’s Bureau 2024 Race Equity Challenge</a></li><li><a href="https://cblcc.acf.hhs.gov/topic-areas/resilience-and-well-being/thinking-about-prevention-through-the-lens-of-culture-and-community-prevention-programs-in-tribal-communities/" rel="nofollow">“Thinking About Prevention Through the Lens of Culture and Community: Prevention Programs in Tribal Communities”</a> [Digital dialogue]</li></ul>
Visit the <a href="https://cblcc.acf.hhs.gov/" rel="nofollow">CBLCC website</a> for more.
 
FRIENDS National Resource Center
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li><a href="https://friendsnrc.org/resources/2024-cbcap-annual-program-instruction-pi/" rel="nofollow">2024 CBCAP Annual Program Instruction</a></li><li><a href="https://friendsnrc.org/resources/march-2024-cbcap-peer-learning-call-an-introduction-to-the-culturally-effective-organizations-framework/" rel="nofollow">&#34;March 2024 CBCAP Peer Learning Call – An Introduction to the Culturally Effective Organizations Framework&#34;</a> [Webinar recording]</li></ul>
Visit the <a href="https://friendsnrc.org/" rel="nofollow">FRIENDS National Resource Center website</a> for more.
 
Center for Workforce Equity and Leadership
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li><a href="https://www.cwel.org/child-welfare-team-safety/" rel="nofollow">“Does Your Child Welfare Team Feel Safe at Work?”</a> [Blog post]</li><li><a href="https://www.cwel.org/advancing-equity-in-child-welfare-workforce/" rel="nofollow">“NEW! Child Welfare at Work: A Blog for the Workforce”</a> [Blog post]</li><li><a href="https://www.cwel.org/indigenous-influenced-leadership/" rel="nofollow">“Rooted in Community: Indigenous-Influenced Leadership”</a> [Blog post]</li></ul>
Visit the <a href="https://www.cwel.org/" rel="nofollow">Center for Workforce Equity and Leadership website</a> for more.
 
National Center for Adoption Competent Mental Health Services
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li><a href="https://bridges4mentalhealth.org/resource/blog/doing-things-differently-to-prevent-child-abuse-and-neglect/" rel="nofollow">“Doing Things Differently to Prevent Child Abuse and Neglect”</a> [Blog post]</li><li><a href="https://bridges4mentalhealth.org/resource/blog/innovations-in-mental-health-for-youth-and-families-in-child-welfare/" rel="nofollow">“Innovations in Mental Health for Youth and Families in Child Welfare”</a> [Blog post]</li><li><a href="https://bridges4mentalhealth.org/resource/blog/unraveling-adoption-addressing-lgbtq-adoption-stigmas/" rel="nofollow">“Unraveling Adoption: Addressing LGBTQ&#43; Adoption Stigmas”</a> [Blog post]</li></ul>
Visit the <a href="https://bridges4mentalhealth.org/" rel="nofollow">National Center for Adoption Competent Mental Health Services website</a> for more.
 
National Center for Diligent Recruitment
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/USACFCBCS/2023/11/16/file_attachments/2686930/The%20National%20Center%20for%20Diligent%20Recruitment.pdf" rel="nofollow">National Center for Diligent Recruitment</a> [Brochure]</li></ul>
Visit the <a href="https://diligentrecruitment.org/" rel="nofollow">National Center for Diligent Recruitment website</a> for more.
 
National Center for Enhanced Post-Adoption Support
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li><a href="https://postadoptioncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/NCFE-Post-Adoption-Support_Brochure-2024.pdf" rel="nofollow">National Center for Enhanced Post-Adoption Support</a> [Brochure]</li><li><a href="https://postadoptioncenter.org/events/" rel="nofollow">New Center Chats and Webinars Added to Events</a></li></ul>
Visit the <a href="http://www.postadoptioncenter.org/" rel="nofollow">National Center for Enhanced Post-Adoption Support website</a> for more.
 
National Center on Substance Abuse and Child Welfare (NCSACW)
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li><a href="https://ncsacw.acf.hhs.gov/topics/prevention/harm-reduction-series/" rel="nofollow">Harm Reduction in the Context of Child Well-Being</a>:
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="circle"><li><a href="https://ncsacw.acf.hhs.gov/files/harm-reduction-part1.pdf" rel="nofollow">Tip Sheet #1: Harm Reduction in the Context of Child Well-Being: An Overview for Serving Families Affected by Substance Use Disorders</a></li><li><a href="https://ncsacw.acf.hhs.gov/files/harm-reduction-part2.pdf" rel="nofollow">Tip Sheet #2: Harm Reduction in the Context of Child Well-Being: Key Considerations for Policymakers</a></li><li><a href="https://ncsacw.acf.hhs.gov/files/harm-reduction-part3.pdf" rel="nofollow">Tip Sheet #3: Harm Reduction in the Context of Child Well-Being: Practice Recommendations for Child Welfare Workers</a></li></ul>
</li><li><a href="https://ncsacw.acf.hhs.gov/topics/recovery-specialists/peer-support-toolkit-series/" rel="nofollow">Peer Support Specialist Programs for Families Affected by Substance Use and Involved With Child Welfare Services: A Four-Module Implementation Toolkit</a>:
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="circle"><li><a href="https://ncsacw.acf.hhs.gov/files/peer-support-mod1.pdf" rel="nofollow">Module 1: Background on Peer Support Specialist Programs and Introduction to the Toolkit</a></li><li><a href="https://ncsacw.acf.hhs.gov/files/peer-support-mod2.pdf" rel="nofollow">Module 2: Building Collaborative Partnerships to Establish Peer Support Specialist Programs</a></li><li><a href="https://ncsacw.acf.hhs.gov/files/peer-support-mod3.pdf" rel="nofollow">Module 3: Program Development Strategies to Implement Effective Peer Support Specialist Programs</a></li><li><a href="https://ncsacw.acf.hhs.gov/files/peer-support-mod4.pdf" rel="nofollow">Module 4: Strategies for Developing the Peer Support Specialist Workforce</a></li></ul>
</li></ul>
Visit the <a href="https://ncsacw.acf.hhs.gov/" rel="nofollow">NCSACW website</a> for more.
 
National Child Welfare Workforce Institute (NCWWI)
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li><a href="https://ncwwi.org/education-professional-development/" rel="nofollow">NCWWI Resource Library</a></li><li><a href="https://ncwwi.org/ncwwi-webinars/" rel="nofollow">NCWWI Webinar Series</a></li><li><a href="https://ncwwi.org/document/recruitment_toolkit/" rel="nofollow">Work With Purpose Child Welfare Professional Recruitment Toolkit</a></li></ul>
Visit the <a href="https://ncwwi.org/" rel="nofollow">NCWWI website</a> for more.
 
National Data Archive on Child Abuse and Neglect (NDACAN)
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li><a href="https://www.ndacan.acf.hhs.gov/datasets/dataset-details.cfm?ID&#61;282" rel="nofollow">Neglect and Prevention Policies (NAPP) Data</a></li><li><a href="https://www.ndacan.acf.hhs.gov/about/updata/ndacan-updata-vol-65-spring-2024-03-28.pdf" rel="nofollow">Spring 2024 issue of The NDACAN Updata</a> [Newsletter]</li></ul>
Visit the <a href="https://www.ndacan.acf.hhs.gov/index.cfm" rel="nofollow">NDACAN website</a> for more.
 
Quality Improvement Center for Workforce Analytics (QIC-WA)
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li><a href="https://ucla.app.box.com/s/eufxs3wn01yuknquy48l0wia8wuumqo4" rel="nofollow">QIC-WA Project Overview</a></li></ul>
Visit the <a href="https://www.qic-wa.org/" rel="nofollow">QIC-WA website</a> for more.
 
Quality Improvement Center for Workforce Development (QIC-WD)
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li><a href="https://www.qic-wd.org/workforce-interventions/competency-based-personnel-selection" rel="nofollow">Competency-Based Personnel Selection</a></li><li><a href="https://www.qic-wd.org/institute-resources" rel="nofollow">QIC-WD Institute Resources</a></li><li><a href="https://www.qic-wd.org/umbrella-summary/job-design" rel="nofollow">Umbrella Summary: Job Design</a></li><li><a href="https://www.qic-wd.org/catalog/" rel="nofollow">Workforce Research Catalog</a> [Tool]</li><li><a href="https://mailchi.mp/qic-wd/final-qic-wd-newsletter-sept2023" rel="nofollow">Final QIC-WD Newsletter</a></li></ul>
Visit the <a href="https://www.qic-wd.org/" rel="nofollow">QIC-WD website</a> for more.
 
Quality Improvement Center on Engaging Youth in Finding Permanency (QIC-EY)
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li><a href="https://qic-ey.org/qic-ey-now-items/culture-is-multidimensional/" rel="nofollow">“QIC-EY NOW: Culture is Multidimensional”</a> [Video]</li><li><a href="https://qic-ey.org/qic-ey-now-items/effective-advocacy-relies-on-flexibility-self-awareness/" rel="nofollow">“QIC-EY NOW: Effective Advocacy Relies on Flexibility &amp; Self-Awareness”</a> [Video]</li><li><a href="https://qic-ey.org/qic-ey-now-items/understanding-the-role-of-cultural-connections/" rel="nofollow">“QIC-NOW: Understanding the Role of Cultural Connections”</a> [Video]</li></ul>
Visit the <a href="https://qic-ey.org/" rel="nofollow">QIC-EY website</a> for more.
 
Quality Improvement Center on Family-Centered Reunification (QIC-R)
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li><a href="https://qicfamilyreunification.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Best-Practices-to-Empower-Self-Care-Support-Wellness-PPSPs.pdf" rel="nofollow">Best Practices to Empower Self-Care and Support Wellness for Peer Parent Support Partners</a></li></ul>
Visit the <a href="https://qicfamilyreunification.org/" rel="nofollow">QIC-R website</a> for more.
 
Quality Improvement Center on Tailored Services, Placement Stability, and Permanency for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning, and Two-Spirit Children and Youth in Foster Care (QIC-LGBTQ2S) at the National Center for Youth with Diverse Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity &amp; Expression (SOGIE Center)
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li><a href="https://innovations.myabsorb.com/#/public-dashboard" rel="nofollow">&#34;Adapting Family Finding &amp; Engagement Practices for LGBTQ&#43; Young People&#34;</a> [e-learning]</li><li><a href="https://sogiecenter.org/2024/02/02/reframing-the-narrative-of-substance-use-and-risk-among-lgbtq-communities/" rel="nofollow">“Reframing the Narrative of Substance Use and Risk Among LGBTQ&#43; Communities”</a> [Blog post]</li></ul>
Visit the <a title="QIC-LGBTQ2S on the SOGIE Center website" href="https://sogiecenter.org/programs/" rel="nofollow">QIC-LGBTQ2S on the SOGIE Center website</a> for more.
 
AdoptUSKids
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li><a href="https://professionals.adoptuskids.org/getting-in-the-right-mindset-to-successfully-engage-youth-in-finding-permanency/" rel="nofollow">&#34;Getting in the Right Mindset to Successfully Engage Youth in Finding Permanency&#34;</a> [Article]</li><li><a href="https://professionals.adoptuskids.org/minority-professional-leadership-development-program-application-now-open/" rel="nofollow">“Minority Professional Leadership Development Program Applications Now Open”</a> [Article]</li><li><a href="https://blog.adoptuskids.org/you-dont-have-to-be-specialyou-just-need-to-be-willing/" rel="nofollow">&#34;You Don’t Have to Be Special…You Just Need to Be Willing&#34;</a> [Blog post]</li></ul>
Visit the <a href="https://adoptuskids.org/" rel="nofollow">AdoptUSKids website</a> for more.
 
James Bell Associates
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li><a href="https://www.jbassoc.com/resource/child-welfare-measures-library/" rel="nofollow">Child Welfare Measures Library</a></li><li><a href="https://www.jbassoc.com/project/learning-engaging-and-creating-with-black-youth-in-adolescent-pregnancy-prevention-programming/" rel="nofollow">Learning, Engaging, and Creating With Black Youth in Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Programming</a></li><li><a href="https://www.jbassoc.com/resource/using-process-mapping-to-improve-services-for-families-involved-in-tribal-child-welfare-facilitators-guide-and-mapping-tool/" rel="nofollow">Using Process Mapping to Improve Services for Families Involved in Tribal Child Welfare: Facilitators’ Guide and Mapping Tool</a></li></ul>
Visit the <a href="https://www.jbassoc.com/" rel="nofollow">James Bell Associates website</a> for more.

Children and youth involved with child welfare often experience behavioral health conditions. The treatment of these conditions has been a subject of concern as children and youth in care may be overprescribed

Examining Behavioral Health Diagnoses and Service Receipt Among Youth in Care

Children and youth involved with child welfare often experience behavioral health conditions. The treatment of these conditions has been a subject of concern as children and youth in care may be overprescribed psychotropic medications, despite limited data and potential side effects. A recent brief from the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation explores these concerns by examining the behavioral health diagnoses and treatment services received by children and youth involved with the child welfare system in 2019.
<a href="https://aspe.hhs.gov/reports/t-msis-child-welfare-overview-brief" rel="nofollow">Behavioral Health Diagnoses and Treatment Services for Children Involved With the Child Welfare System</a> uses claims data from Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). It analyzes information about 719,908 children and youth involved with the child welfare system and 31,473,608 children and youth in other Medicaid eligibility categories. The following are some of the study’s key findings:
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;"><li>More than 40 percent of children and youth involved with child welfare had been diagnosed with behavioral health conditions.</li><li>Children and youth involved with child welfare were more likely than other children and youth to use behavioral health services.</li><li>More than 45 percent of children and youth in care used behavioral health services, with 40.3 percent using outpatient services and 26.3 percent using psychotropic medications.</li><li>Most children and youth in care with a behavioral health diagnosis also received behavioral health services (90 percent).</li><li>Of the children and youth in care who had a behavioral health diagnosis, more than half received psychotropic medication.</li><li>Seven percent of children and youth in care without a behavioral health diagnosis also received psychotropic medication.</li><li>Rates of psychotropic medication use varied by state, with Georgia at the low end of distribution at 6 percent and Virginia at the high end of distribution at 47.2 percent.</li></ul>
The brief and related research represent the first Transformed Medicaid Statistical Information System (T-MSIS) analyses to focus on a child welfare population. The brief is available on the <a href="https://aspe.hhs.gov/" rel="nofollow">Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation&#39;s website</a>.

The U.S. child welfare system has historically performed poorly when it comes to supporting children and youth of color. In 2014, the Annie E. Casey Foundation released a report, Race for Results, detailing

The U.S. child welfare system has historically performed poorly when it comes to supporting children and youth of color. In 2014, the Annie E. Casey Foundation released a report, Race for Results, detailing racial disparities and disproportionality using 12 well-being indicators. Ten years later, the foundation released a new edition of <a href="https://assets.aecf.org/m/resourcedoc/aecf-raceforresults-2024.pdf" rel="nofollow">Race for Results</a> with updated data. The new data show that while there have been improvements across racial and ethnic groups in at least six indicators, wide disparities remain for children of color.
The report provides scores (in percentages) for the following well-being indicators:
<ol style="list-style-position: inside;"><li>Babies born at a normal birth weight</li><li>Children ages 3 to 5 enrolled in nursery school, preschool, or kindergarten</li><li>Fourth graders who scored at or above proficient in reading</li><li>Eighth graders who scored at or above proficient in math</li><li>High school students graduating on time</li><li>Young adults ages 19 to 26 who are in school or working</li><li>Young adults ages 25 to 29 who have completed an associate degree or higher</li><li>Females ages 15 to 19 who delay childbearing until adulthood</li><li>Children who live with a householder who has at least a high school diploma</li><li>Children who live in two-parent families</li><li>Children living at or above 200 percent of poverty</li><li>Children who live in low-poverty areas (poverty less than 20 percent)</li></ol>
The report authors analyze trends by indicator and racial and ethnic group. For example, they identify that American Indian and Alaska Native child well-being improved in six categories but worsened in five, Asian and Pacific Islander children exceeded the national average in all but one category, White children exceeded the national average in all categories, and, despite improving in seven indicators, Black children continue to face the steepest obstacles to opportunity. Percentages by race indicate that race continues to be a factor in well-being and non-White groups often face barriers to opportunities and success.
The report delves into the indicator categories of early childhood, education and early work experience, family resources, and neighborhood context. It also highlights key milestones for each racial and ethnic group and provides recommendations for a “brighter future.” There are three steps outlined for advancing universal policies to bolster all children:
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;"><li>Expand federal and state child tax credits and earned income tax credits for low-income families.</li><li>Design programs that help families provide for their children’s future while reducing racial disparities.</li><li>Expand Medicaid coverage.</li></ul>
In addition, the report outlines four targeted strategies:
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;"><li>Follow the data.</li><li>Engage communities that face the steepest barriers to opportunities and success.</li><li>Analyze root causes of inequities.</li><li>Use racial equity impact assessment tools and implementation measures to ensure policies achieve targeted goals.</li></ul>
More information is available in the report and its summary on the <a href="https://www.aecf.org/resources/2024-race-for-results" rel="nofollow">Annie E. Casey Foundation website</a>.

A February 2024 investigation published in JAMA Pediatrics examines the clinical and sociodemographic characteristics of youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) in foster care. Youth

Study Examines Prevalence of Foster Care Among Youth With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities 

A February 2024 investigation published in JAMA Pediatrics examines the clinical and sociodemographic characteristics of youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) in foster care. Youth with I/DD are more likely than other youth to experience foster care. To better understand the service needs and disparities experienced by these youth, researchers conducted a population-level analysis of youth with I/DD in foster care.
The report uses data about youth with I/DD who were enrolled in Medicaid through foster care in 2016, a total of 39,143 youth. Researchers used the data to examine the association between risk of foster care involvement and race, ethnicity, age, and sex. Three diagnostic subgroups of youth with I/DD were examined: autism spectrum disorder only, intellectual disability only, or both autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability.
Findings indicate that Black youth and females had an increased likelihood of foster care involvement, and the likelihood of foster care involvement increased with age. These findings align with research showing Black youth experience disparities and overrepresentation at all points of contact with child welfare, according to the report. The increased risk for females aligns with a recent call for research on the identification of autism spectrum disorder in females, as females are often diagnosed later than males.
The study identifies the need for more research and attention in several areas. It calls for increased attention to what happens to youth with I/DD once they are placed in foster care. The study also emphasizes the importance of continuity of care, largely because disruptions in health care can have significant effects on short- and long-term health outcomes among youth with I/DD.
It also calls for the representation of youth with I/DD in research, since knowing I/DD status could contribute to knowledge of what contributes to risk for foster care involvement, and subsequently, how to prevent it.
More information is available in the article, <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapediatrics/fullarticle/2814915" rel="nofollow">“Foster Care Involvement Among Youth With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.”</a>

In 2023, the Quality Improvement Center on Engaging Youth in Finding Permanency (QIC-EY) established its Lessons Learned series to share key insights related to engaging children and youth in child welfare,

The Role of Leadership in Youth Engagement: A Lesson Learned From the QIC-EY Project

In 2023, the Quality Improvement Center on Engaging Youth in Finding Permanency (QIC-EY) established its <a href="https://qic-ey.org/products/lessons-learned/" rel="nofollow">Lessons Learned series</a> to share key insights related to engaging children and youth in child welfare, especially in relation to permanency decisions, through knowledge gained from the QIC-EY project.
The second lesson in the series—leaders set the tone for building relationships that drive authentic engagement of children and youth—acknowledges the important role leaders can play in building and nurturing relationships within organizations that, in turn, enable and empower child welfare staff to engage youth in the decisions that affect their lives.
Supporting insights are provided, including an episode from the QIC-EY Podcast, which features an on-topic conversation with Addie D. Williams, former president and chief executive officer of Spaulding for Children. The lesson also encourages child welfare leadership to consider the following questions as they work to implement this lesson and drive the active and intentional partnership with youth:
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;"><li>As you lead staff members who engage directly with children and youth, are you modeling and exhibiting <a href="https://qic-ey.org/products/environmental-scan/literature-review/" rel="nofollow">characteristics</a> that encourage authentic engagement?</li><li>Do the staff whom you lead feel valued, included, and part of the decision-making process?</li><li>As you and the teams that you lead are working to provide safety, permanence, and well-being for children and youth, how are you supporting your staff members by valuing those same priorities for them?</li><li>Are your staff members equipped with the skills, resources, and tools they need to find ways to engage authentically with children and youth?</li></ul>
To learn more about the second lesson learned, including how leaders can address possible barriers to engagement, visit the <a href="https://qic-ey.org/products/lessons-learned/lessons-learned-2/" rel="nofollow">QIC-EY website</a>.
Related item: Other lessons from the QIC-EY’s Lessons Learned series are featured in the <a href="https://cbexpress.acf.hhs.gov/article/2023/may/podcast-discusses-authentic-engagement-of-children-and-youth-in-child-welfare/3c1e162f1b7ded1080f4631ee54bcba5" rel="nofollow">May 2023</a>, <a href="https://cbexpress.acf.hhs.gov/article/2023/september/new-lesson-learned-core-professional-characteristics-for-engaging-children-and-youth/9ce6ed9b1b4c391080f4631ee54bcbe3" rel="nofollow">September 2023</a>, and <a href="https://cbexpress.acf.hhs.gov/article/2023-january/december/qic-ey-shares-new-lesson-learned-from-literature-reviews-/4eff6a5b1b1eb5508645a828624bcb0d" rel="nofollow">December/January 2024</a> issues of CBX.

A new resource for professionals, Promoting Peer Support in Child Welfare, details the importance of peer support programs to help bolster children, youth, and families as they navigate the child welfare

Investing in Peer Support Programs to Improve Family Well-Being 

A new resource for professionals, <a href="https://www.gu.org/app/uploads/2024/02/Peer-Support-in-Child-Welfare-Resource.pdf" rel="nofollow">Promoting Peer Support in Child Welfare</a>, details the importance of peer support programs to help bolster children, youth, and families as they navigate the child welfare system. The publication outlines what peer support is, why it is important, the evidence for its effectiveness, and the importance of investing in peer support programs.
When leaders invest in growing and scaling peer support programs, there can be many benefits:
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;"><li>It can amplify lived experience, as many support programs fundamentally partner with those who have experienced child welfare.</li><li>It can build capacity for peer-to-peer delivered services in communities.</li><li>It can reduce isolation by connecting people with similar experiences.</li><li>It can enhance family well-being by connecting families to services and supports.</li><li>It can build evidence for peer support.</li></ul>
Peer support programs can help many families involved with child welfare, including youth and young adults, parents, and kinship caregivers. It can also take many forms, such as mentoring, resource navigation, support groups, training, one-on-one coaching, advocacy, and outreach. While research about peer support programs in child welfare is limited, some early results are promising:
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;"><li>Researchers found that involvement in the Iowa Parent Partner Program reduced reentry rates by more than 40 percent and significantly increased the likelihood of reunification.</li><li>A study of the Parents for Parents Program in Washington found that the program helped parents better understand the system and increased reunification by 32 percent.</li><li>Evaluations of the Sobriety Treatment and Recovery Teams program in Kentucky found that children in the program were about half as likely to enter foster care as children not involved in the program. It also reduced the likelihood of foster care reentry.</li></ul>
The publication, available on the <a href="https://www.gu.org/resources/promoting-peer-support-in-child-welfare/" rel="nofollow">Generations United website</a>, was developed by a committee of members from the Children’s Trust Fund Alliance, Generations United, FosterClub, and Zero to Three.

Written by the Capacity Building Center for States Child welfare professionals have traditionally focused on identifying and establishing legal permanency on federally established timelines for young people

Written by the Capacity Building Center for States
Child welfare professionals have traditionally focused on identifying and establishing legal permanency on federally established timelines for young people determined to be unable to return to the care of their parents. However, focusing mostly on legal permanency may result in a young person’s other essential connections—such as prior foster caregivers, schoolteachers, and peers—not receiving the same attention as other forms of valuable support. In turn, this may cause young people in care to lose relationships with their biological families and kin as well as other important individuals in their lives.
In recent years, agencies have begun to understand that relational permanency is critical to the well-being of young people (Child Welfare Information Gateway, n.d.-b). Relational permanency encourages children and young people to form long-lasting permanent connections in foster care that include retaining connections with their cultures, communities, and families. By focusing on relational permanency, agencies can encourage children and young people to form strong relationships and social connections with people in their lives that can help them feel loved, accepted, and supported. This may also give young people more options and long-term security when it comes to choosing their permanent connections (Child Welfare Information Gateway, n.d.-a).
Challenges and Benefits of Moving Beyond Legal Permanency
Focusing on relational permanency is not without challenges. One of the challenges young people might face is that while they may be forming committed connections with adults in their lives, they may still lack a sense of belonging, seeing themselves as “just a foster child” (Thompson &amp; Greeson, 2015). Young people may also have trouble forming meaningful relationships with adults in their lives because of trust issues due to entering care or previous experiences with adults, trauma caused by being in the system, lack of positive examples, or a fear of rejection due to past experiences (Thompson &amp; Greeson, 2015). By being aware of these challenges and offering mental health support where needed, agencies can better facilitate relational permanency for young people in foster care.
In addition, collecting data on relational permanency can be a challenge for agencies. It is easier to determine the number of young people exiting care through adoption or guardianship than to determine how many young people are exiting care with an adult they can call when they are facing personal challenges such as ones related to child care or finances. These data points are much harder to define, but these types of connections are essential for young people who have experienced child welfare. Having at least one individual to call on in times of stress can make a difference between a young person who is simply surviving and one who is thriving and resilient.
Despite these challenges, there are substantial benefits to moving beyond legal permanency for children and young people, including the following (Williams-Butler, 2017):
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;"><li>Positive long-term effects on young people’s social, psychological, and financial outcomes</li><li>Improved self-esteem</li><li>Improved educational achievement and social skill development</li></ul>
Child welfare agencies could experience the following potential benefits (Williams-Butler, 2017):
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;"><li>Improved turnover rates for young people returning to care</li><li>Better permanency outcomes and opportunities for young people and families</li></ul>
By working on relational permanency, agencies will be able to apply lessons learned and best practices when working on legal permanency with children and young people.
How Children and Young People Can Strengthen Permanent Connections
Agencies can better support relational permanency for children and young people by exploring strategies to help them nurture, strengthen, and maintain permanent and personal connections. Instead of solely focusing on replacing connections young people had before entering care, child welfare agencies should strive to support them in maintaining existing connections while also nurturing new ones. Offering this support can help build positive relationships between young people, families, and agencies.
Some steps agencies can take toward encouraging relational permanency and moving from the standard legal lenses of permanency include the following (Child Welfare Information Gateway, 2019):
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;"><li>Begin involving young people and families in permanency planning as early as possible, including discussing how they define “family” and “permanency.” Agencies can create space to allow young people and families to advocate for themselves during family team meetings, organize permanency planning calls, and be open-minded to nontraditional permanency solutions proposed by families.</li><li>Strengthen reunification services. Train new and existing staff about the different permanency options, how to determine which option is best for individual young people in their care, and how to better involve young people and families when discussing permanency options.</li><li>Listen to young people about which connections they value most and what they feel would be most beneficial to them.</li><li>Help young people maintain or establish relationships with kin and other essential connections if they wish to do so.</li><li>Continue to explore relational permanency throughout a young person’s time in child welfare. Hold ongoing conversations with young people and families about building supportive connections and systems in their lives.</li></ul>
Supporting emotional, physical, and relational stability is at the core of helping children and young people thrive. By moving past legal permanency as the goal and investing in relational permanency, agencies can help children and young people build a community of supportive connections that last a lifetime.
 
References
Child Welfare Information Gateway. (n.d.-a) Permanency. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Children&#39;s Bureau. <a href="https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/permanency/" rel="nofollow">https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/permanency/</a>
Child Welfare Information Gateway. (n.d.-b) Relational permanency. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Children&#39;s Bureau.  <a href="https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/permanency/relational-permanency/" rel="nofollow">https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/permanency/relational-permanency/</a>
Child Welfare Information Gateway. (2019). Promoting permanency for older youth in out-of-home care. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Children&#39;s Bureau.<a href="https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/promoting-permanency-older-youth-out-home-care/" rel="nofollow"> https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/promoting-permanency-older-youth-out-home-care/</a>
Thompson, A. E., &amp; Greeson, J. K. P. (2015, August). Legal and relational permanence in older foster care youths. Social Work Today, 15(4), 24. <a href="https://www.socialworktoday.com/archive/072115p24.shtml" rel="nofollow">https://www.socialworktoday.com/archive/072115p24.shtml</a>
Williams-Butler, A. (2017). The role of relational permanence in positive outcomes among African American adolescents in foster care. [Doctoral dissertation, University of Michigan]. Deep Blue Documents. <a href="https://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/handle/2027.42/137144/%20abigwill_1.pdf?sequence&#61;1" rel="nofollow">https://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/handle/2027.42/137144/ abigwill_1.pdf?sequence&#61;1</a>

The Child Mind Institute in partnership with the state of California developed the Positive Parenting, Thriving Kids Project to help parents and caregivers support the mental health and self-esteem of

The Child Mind Institute in partnership with the state of California developed the Positive Parenting, Thriving Kids Project to help parents and caregivers support the mental health and self-esteem of their children. The project provides a series of free videos that feature more than 150 caregivers, youth, and experts talking about challenging topics, organized into the following categories:
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li>Self-Care and Parent-Child Relationships</li><li>Healthy Child and Adolescent Growth</li><li>Big Changes and Challenges</li><li>Family and Community Stress</li></ul>
Videos answer a variety of questions, such as:
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li>How can I take care of myself so I can be the best parent I can be?</li><li>How can I build and maintain a warm and positive relationship with my child or teen?</li><li>How do I help my child build healthy self-esteem?</li><li>How do I build my child’s basic wellness habits, like sleep, diet, and exercise?</li><li>How and when do I talk to my kids about sex, consent, and safety?</li><li>How do I talk to my child about sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression?</li><li>How and when do I talk to my kids about alcohol and drugs?</li><li>How do I recognize signs and help my child struggling with mental health problems?</li><li>How do I help my child with difficult experiences such as encountering and responding to racism and discrimination?</li></ul>
Each video is less than 10 minutes; available in English and Spanish; and includes a downloadable learning guide with evidence-based tips, tools, and additional resources. 
To learn more, visit the project’s <a href="https://childmind.org/positiveparenting/?utm_medium&#61;email&amp;utm_source&#61;oneoff&amp;utm_campaign&#61;pptk-t1-2024-03&amp;utm_content&#61;body-pptk" rel="nofollow">webpage</a>.
Related item: Healthy Minds, Thriving Kids, another Child Mind Institute Thriving Kids project and video series, is featured in the <a href="https://cbexpress.acf.hhs.gov/article/2022/june/new-resource-helps-adults-talk-with-youth-about-mental-health/758a6aed1ba01550bca18512f54bcb00" rel="nofollow">June 2022 issue</a> of CBX.

A new web resource from Promising Futures—a project of Futures Without Violence—offers some practical tips for supporting young people as they navigate social media and learn to accept and care for their

Empowering Young People in the Age of Social Media

A new <a href="https://promising.futureswithoutviolence.org/how-to-empower-young-people-in-the-age-of-social-media-supporting-body-acceptance-self-compassion/" rel="nofollow">web resource</a> from Promising Futures—a project of <a href="http://www.futureswithoutviolence.org/" rel="nofollow">Futures Without Violence</a>—offers some practical tips for supporting young people as they navigate social media and learn to accept and care for their bodies.
A 1-minute introductory video prompts parents and caregivers with a question: Are you concerned about the effects of social media on your child’s self-esteem and body image? The video notes that, while many teens report social media has been detrimental to their self-image, caring adults can help mitigate these negative effects by creating nurturing, healing environments that encourage body acceptance and self-compassion.
The web resource highlights authentic youth perspectives on the effects social media has had on their lives. The resource explains why creating safe and affirming environments is so important and provides the following list of open-ended questions that parents can use to engage youth in conversation:
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;"><li>What do you enjoy and dislike about social media?</li><li>What things help you feel at home in your body, and what things make you feel uneasy?</li><li>When was the last time you felt proud, ashamed, or something else about your appearance while on social media? What created those feelings?</li><li>Are there times when you don’t think about your appearance?</li><li>How does your body help you do the things you love to do?</li></ul>
Not all social media is harmful, though. It can also be a place of inclusion and appreciation for all types of people—a place that can help youth foster self-acceptance and love. The web resource offers a selection of positive social media accounts and resources.
To learn more, view <a href="https://promising.futureswithoutviolence.org/how-to-empower-young-people-in-the-age-of-social-media-supporting-body-acceptance-self-compassion/" rel="nofollow">How to Empower Young People in the Age of Social Media: Supporting Body Acceptance &amp; Self-Compassion</a> on the Promising Futures website.

Upcoming conferences and events on child welfare and adoption include the following: May 2024 Human Services Workforce Development Evaluation Symposium UCLA Agile Visual Analytics Lab Los Angeles, CA,

Upcoming conferences and events on child welfare and adoption include the following:
May
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li><a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/human-services-workforce-development-evaluation-symposium-registration-756317464897?aff&#61;oddtdtcreator" rel="nofollow">2024 Human Services Workforce Development Evaluation Symposium</a> UCLA Agile Visual Analytics Lab Los Angeles, CA, May 1–3 </li><li><a href="https://www.ffta.org/page/PPI2024" rel="nofollow">FFTA 20th Annual Public Policy Institute</a> Family Focused Treatment Association (FFTA) Washington, DC, May 6–7 </li><li><a href="https://www.cffutures.org/ftc-practice-academy/navigating-risk/" rel="nofollow">Navigating Risk: Disrupting the Cycle of Substance Use for Children and Adolescents</a> Center for Children and Family Futures Virtual, May 7 </li><li><a href="https://www.zoomgov.com/meeting/register/vJIscO-pqTwoH-v8pgyqeLXN1SB_GhX73MY?fbclid&#61;IwZXh0bgNhZW0BMQABHQpJT4cO10dNio-xE8TTo7l8D448shRdlsYq9iX9KhiKl4159sUwMuRdbg_aem_AaAPZNKd3b1nlgD-bYX8DiuTqoclVMqxLDyzUUOuJsex1kSyjoCX4osW_de375dfnjI#/registration" rel="nofollow">“Allying With Youth: Developing Life-Long Relationships and Supportive Networks”</a> Capacity Building Center for States Virtual, May 16</li><li><a href="https://adoptioncouncil.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_zHsXc19VRzGYpECp2Hcukw#/registration" rel="nofollow">&#34;Talking to Friends and Family About Adoption&#34;</a> National Council for Adoption Virtual, May 16 </li><li><a href="https://vermontcwtp.org/2024-national-title-iv-e-roundtable/" rel="nofollow">2024 National Title IV-E Roundtable</a> Vermont Child Welfare Training Partnership Burlington, VT, May 21–23 </li><li><a href="https://postadoptioncenter.org/event/adoption-and-guardianship-preparation-training-great-expectations-and-beyond/" rel="nofollow">&#34;Adoption and Guardianship Preparation Training: Great Expectations and Beyond&#34;</a> National Center for Enhanced Post-Adoption Support Virtual, May 29 </li><li><a href="https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_V2OYd4AGQTWuejEEJAzaSQ#/registration" rel="nofollow">&#34;Responding to Prenatal Alcohol and Other Substance Exposures: FASD, Trauma, and Child Welfare&#34;</a> Child Welfare League of America Virtual, May 29 </li></ul>
June
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li><a href="https://postadoptioncenter.org/event/an-overview-of-the-post-adoption-center-and-our-services/" rel="nofollow">&#34;An Overview of the Post-Adoption Center and Our Services&#34;</a> National Center for Enhanced Post-Adoption Support Virtual, June 4 </li><li><a href="https://www.aphsanationalsummit.com/" rel="nofollow">APHSA National Human Services Summit 2024</a> American Public Human Services Association (APHSA) Arlington, VA, June 9–12 </li><li><a href="https://apsac.org/colloquium-registration/" rel="nofollow">APSAC&#39;s 31st Colloquium</a> American Professional Society on the Abuse of Children (APSAC) New Orleans, LA, June 9–13 </li><li><a href="https://postadoptioncenter.org/event/mental-health-needs-of-teens-post-permanency/" rel="nofollow">Mental Health Needs of Teens Post-Permanency</a> National Center for Enhanced Post-Adoption Support Virtual, June 12</li></ul>
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li><a href="https://adoptioncouncil.org/ncfa-conference/" rel="nofollow">National Adoption Conference</a> National Council for Adoption Fort Worth, TX, June 26–28</li></ul>
July
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li><a href="https://www.ffta.org/page/Call2024" rel="nofollow">FFTA 38th Annual Conference</a> FFTA Denver, CO, July 7–10 </li><li><a href="https://postadoptioncenter.org/event/when-to-co-share-parenting-in-kinship-families-who-have-adopted-or-obtained-guardianship/" rel="nofollow">&#34;When to Co/Share Parenting in Kinship Families Who Have Adopted or Obtained Guardianship&#34;</a> National Center for Enhanced Post-Adoption Support Virtual, July 11 </li><li><a href="https://postadoptioncenter.org/event/an-in-depth-look-at-technical-assistance-available-to-states-tribal-nations-and-territories/" rel="nofollow">&#34;An In-depth Look at Technical Assistance Available to States, Tribal Nations, and Territories&#34;</a> National Center for Enhanced Post-Adoption Support Virtual, July 16 </li><li><a href="https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_5IHbOtTCQQaYyMRIEzJcRA#/registration" rel="nofollow">&#34;Responding to Prenatal Alcohol and Other Substance Exposures: FASD Assessment and Intervention&#34;</a> Child Welfare League of America Virtual, July 24</li></ul>
August
<ul style="list-style-position: inside;" type="disc"><li><a href="https://postadoptioncenter.org/event/contents-of-the-resource-library/" rel="nofollow">&#34;Contents of the Resource Library&#34;</a> National Center for Enhanced Post-Adoption Support Virtual, August 6 </li><li><a href="https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_PG8-xgaqTn24IDbpQ4Ul0Q#/registration" rel="nofollow">&#34;Responding to Prenatal Alcohol and Other Substance Exposures: Multi-System Collaboration and Family Care Plans&#34;</a>  Child Welfare League of America Virtual, August 7 </li><li><a href="https://www.cffutures.org/ftc-practice-academy/intentional-integration/" rel="nofollow">Intentional Integration: How to Identify and Support Parents with Co-Occurring Disorders</a> Center for Children and Family Futures Virtual, August 8 </li><li><a href="https://naccchildlaw.org/conference/47th-national-child-welfare-law-conference/" rel="nofollow">NACC&#39;s 47th National Child Welfare Law Conference</a> National Association of Counsel for Children (NACC) Salt Lake City, UT, and Virtual, August 12–14</li></ul>

In the recent webinar “Strengthening Families Impacted by Foster Care and Adoption,” hosted by the Young Professionals Council (YPC) of the Field Center for Children’s Policy, Practice & Research, a panel

Strengthening Families Impacted by Foster Care and Adoption

In the recent webinar “Strengthening Families Impacted by Foster Care and Adoption,” hosted by the Young Professionals Council (YPC) of the Field Center for Children’s Policy, Practice &amp; Research, a panel of foster care and adoption experts discuss how child welfare professionals can more effectively work with foster and adoptive families and help parents raise children who thrive. The hour-long webinar addresses topics such as kinship care, LGBTQ&#43; (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, or other gender or sexual identity) families, transracial parenting, and more.
Access the <a href="https://fieldcenteratpenn.org/event/strengthening-families-impacted-by-foster-care-and-adoption-a-webinar-panel-discussion-presented-by-the-field-centers-young-professionals-council/" rel="nofollow">webinar</a> and learn more about the YPC, a group of professionals spanning various disciplines committed to improving outcomes for children who have experienced child abuse and neglect, on the Field Center <a href="http://www.fieldcenteratpenn.org/" rel="nofollow">website</a>.
Related item: Dr. Joseph Crumbley, one of the panelists from the YPC webinar above, developed the video series The Inherent Strengths in Kinship Families, which is featured in the <a href="https://cbexpress.acf.hhs.gov/article/2023/may/webinar-and-training-focus-on-the-strengths-of-kinship-families/c14702441b1aed5080f4631ee54bcb34" rel="nofollow">May 2023 issue</a> of CBX.

May 2024Vol. 25, No. 4New Data Show Fewer Children in Foster Care for the Fourth Year in a Row