FP HAndbook - Safe Children Coalition
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FOSTER PARENT HANDBOOK 2013 Safe Children Coalition DeSoto/ Manatee/ Sarasota Counties 1 Safe Children Coalition Offices DeSoto County Safe Children Coalition 805 North Mills Ave. Arcadia FL 34266 (863) -494-5082 Manatee County Safe Children Coalition 5729 Manatee Ave. West Bradenton, FL 34209 (941) -721-7670 Sarasota County Safe Children Coalition 1500 Independence Blvd. Suite 210 Sarasota, FL 34234 (941) -371-4799 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS FORWARD……………………………………………………………………………………… 5 GLOSSARY OF TERMS……………………………………………………………………… 7 LICENSING……………………………………………………………………………………. 13 PLACEMENT…………………………………………………………………………………. 21 MEDIA…………………………….……………………………………………………………. 27 SOCIAL SECURITY (DISABILITY)…………………………………………………………. 27 VISITATION…………………………………………………………………………………….28 HEALTH……………………………………………………………………………………….. 31 CHILD CARE & RESPITE CARE…………………………………………………………… 37 SCHOOL………………………………………………………………………………………. 41 TEENS…………………………………………………………………………………………. 45 NORMALCY…………………………………………………………………………………....52 LEGAL ISSUES………………………………………………………………………………. 52 FINANCIAL ISSUES…………………………………………………………………………..57 FOSTER & ADOPTIVE PARENT ASSOCIATION………………………………………... 60 WIC: WOMEN, INFANTS AND CHILDREN PROGRAM..………………………………. 62 3 SAFE CHILDREN COALITION The Safe Children Coalition’s mission is to provide a community Coalition blending available resources to assist DeSoto, Manatee, and Sarasota Counties’ abused and neglected children and their families in reaching permanency in a safe and stable environment. Established in Sarasota County in 1997, this Coalition has made a commitment to enhance the services available to these children and their families by providing high quality care in a system that is efficient and accountable, both to the children and families it serves, and to the community. Through its contract with the Florida Department of Children and Families, the Sarasota Family YMCA, Inc. (lead agency) has developed a model of services that demonstrates that communities really can care for their children. 4 FORWARD The Foster Parent Handbook includes general information, guidelines, answers and information to assist foster parents in caring for children in foster care. This handbook is intended to be a practical guide, not an all inclusive policy and procedure handbook. Every effort has been made to include accurate, up-todate information. However, policies, procedures and eligibility criteria are subject to change. We encourage you to contact your child’s Case Management Team or service providers directly if you have any questions. We will also periodically update this guide, as changes are made. We wish to offer a sincere thank you to those of you who so freely share your hearts and homes by caring for the most needy children in our community. We are deeply grateful to you for your devoted service and for joining with us as partners. We hope that you find this handbook a valuable resource. 5 Foster Parenting: Rewards and Challenges As you enter the world of foster care and adoptions, we feel it is necessary to give you the following warning: This may be challenging work. These children need your help; however, you should know that: 1) Many of these children have serious problems that are not revealed to us until after the child is placed in your home. 2) Because many of the children have been abused, neglected and/or abandoned, their behavior may not be at all like other children you have encountered. 3) Sometimes, even though you feel children should remain with you, they will be removed from your home based on decisions made through the legal process, the case review process or the licensing process. 4) This is very rewarding work that may sometimes be difficult. You will make a difference in the life of a child. Thank you for your efforts. 6 GLOSSARY OF TERMS ACRONYM EXPANSION SOURCE A Abstraction General A/N Abuse and Neglect DCF A/P Adult Perpetrator General AAS Aging and Adult Services Child Welfare ac before meals Medical ACCESS Automated Community Connection to Economic Self-Sufficiency DCF ACF Administration for Children & Families DCF ACP Approval of Case Plan CWLS ad lib As needed; as necessary Medical ADD Attention Deficit Disorder Clinical ADHD Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Clinical ADJ Adjudication DCF ADO Assistant Director of Operations Coalition ADOP Adoption Coalition ADS Affidavit of Diligent Search DCF AES Adoption Exchange System DCF AFDC Aid to Families with Dependent Children Child Welfare AHCA Agency for Health Care Administration DCF AKA Also Known As General AP Absent Parent/ Alleged Perpetrator DCF APD Agency for Persons with Disabilities Child Welfare APHSA American Public Human Services Association DCF APP Approval of Permanency Plan CWLS APPLA Another Permanent Planned Living Arrangement DCF APS Adult Protective Services DCF aq water Medical ARR Arraignment CWLS ARS Adoptions and Related Services Child Welfare ASFA Adoptions and Safe Families Act DCF ASK Access Secure Knowledge (Electronic client file) Coalition ASO Adolescent Sexual Offender General ASTOP Adolescent Sex-Offender Treatment Outpatient Program Child Welfare BA Behavioral Analyst General BHOS Behavioral Health Overlay Services Medicaid bid Twice daily Medical BIP Batterers Intervention Program DCF 7 BMC Blake Medical Center General C Client Child Welfare C Collateral Medicaid c With Medical C&F Children and Families Program Child Welfare C/V Child Victim General CAPTA Child Abuse Prevention Treatment Act DCF CBC Community Based Care DCF CBH Coastal Behavioral Health Care Coalition CBHA Comprehensive Behavioral Health Assessment Medicaid CDRT Child Death Review Team DCF CFOP, OP Children and Families Operating Procedures DCF CFSR Child and Family Services Review DCF CH Child Coalition Chrono's Chronological Notes DCF CIC Child in Care DCF CINS-FINS Children in Need of Services, Families in Need of Services Child Welfare CIO Chief Information Officer DCF CIS Client Information System Coalition CJC Child Justice Center DCF CLS Children's Legal Services DCF CM Case Manager / Case Management DCF CMH Children Mental Health DCF CMO Case Management Organization Coalition CMS Case Management Services Child Welfare CMS Children's Medical Service DOH CMS Children's Medical Services DCF CP Case Plan Coalition CPC Case Plan Conference DCF CPC Child Protection Center DCF CPHA County Public Health Department General CPI/PI Child Protective Investigator/Protective Investigator DCF CPT Child Protection Team DCF CPU Case Plan Update DCF CRC Coastal Recovery Center Coalition CRC Clinical Review Committee Coalition CRS Case Review Staffing Coalition CS Child Study Coalition CS Clinical Specialist Coalition CSA Abuse Report/Child Safety Assessment DCF CSA Child Safety Assessment DCF CSE Child Support Enforcement DCF 8 CSTOP Child Sex-Offender Treatment Outpatient Program Child Welfare CSU Crisis Stabilization Unit Child Welfare CTF Client Trust Fund DCF CWLS/CLS Child Welfare Legal Services DCF CWPMHP Child Welfare Prepaid Mental Health Plan DCF CWS Child Welfare Specialist Coalition CY&FS Children Youth and Family Services Coalition DA District Administrator DCF DC Dade City General DCF Department of Children and Families DCF DCSB DeSoto County School Board General DCSO DeSoto County Sheriff's Office General DDN Drug Dependent Newborn Child Welfare DHH Deaf and Hard of Hearing DOH Dispo Disposition hearing DCF DJJ Department of Juvenile Justice DCF DO Director of Operations Coalition DOB Date of Birth General DOC Department of Corrections Child Welfare DOH Department of Health General DPM District Program Manager DCF DS Developmental Services DCF DSM IV Diagnostic and Statistical Manual IV General DT Day Treatment Medicaid DV Domestic Violence Child Welfare DVIP Domestic Violence Intervention Program Child Welfare Dx Diagnosis Medical EAP Employee Assistance Program Coalition EBP Evidence Based Practice DCF EPSDT Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment Child Welfare ER Emergency Room DCF ERAT Early Response Assessment Team Coalition ES Emergency Shelter Coalition ES/ESS Economic Services/Economic Self-Sufficiency Child Welfare ESI Early Service Intervention Coalition ESS, ACCESS Economic Self-Sufficiency DCF F Father Child Welfare FAC, Rule Florida Administrative Code DCF FAHIS Florida Abuse Hotline Information System DCF FAS Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Clinical FC Foster Care Coalition FCC Family Counseling Center Coalition 9 FCCFD Florida Center for Children and Family Development Coalition FCM Family Care Manager DCF FCP Family Centered Practice DCF FDLE Florida Department of Law Enforcement General FETC Family Emergency Treatment Center General FH Foster Home Coalition FL CFSR Florida Child and Family Service Review DCF FP Foster Parent Coalition FPC Family Partnership Center General FPFS Family Preservation Family Support Coalition FPS Family Preservation Services Coalition FS Florida Statutes DCF FSA Family Safety Alliance General FSFN Florida Safe Family Network DCF FSPT Family Services Planning Team Child Welfare FSRS Family Services Response System Child Welfare FSW Family Support Worker Coalition FTF Face-to-face Coalition FTT Failure to Thrive DCF FX Father DCF G Goal Coalition GAL Guardian Ad Litem Legal GCLS Gulf Coast Legal Services Child Welfare grp (GRP) Group Coalition HBRS Home Based Rehab Services Medicaid HHSB Health & Human Services Board General Hotline Child Abuse Hotline DCF HRAC Human Rights Advocacy Committee General hs At bedtime Medical HS Home Study Coalition HUD Housing and Urban Development General HV Home Visit Coalition I Individual Psychotherapy Medicaid ICCP Intensive Crisis Counseling Program Child Welfare ICPC Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children DCF ICSA Initial Child Safety Assessment DCF ICWA Indian Child Welfare Act DCF ID Identification General IDS Initial Decision Summary DCF IDS Investigation Decision Summary Child Welfare IEP Individual Education Plan DCF IFS Intensive Family Services Child Welfare 10 IHE Intervention and Health Education Coalition IL Independent Living Coalition ILC Independent Living Counselor DCF ILP Independent Living Program DCF ILS Independent Living Services / Specialist DCF IM Intramuscular Medical IS Intervention Specialist Coalition ITN Invitation to Negotiate DCF IV-B Title IV-B General IV-E Title IV-E General JASP Juvenile Alternative Services Program Legal JCM Judicial Case Manager Coalition JFCS Jewish Family & Children Services General JOY Join Our Youth Community JR Judicial Review CWLS JRSSR Judicial Review Social Study Report Coalition LE Law Enforcement General Lic Licensed General LJ Legal Jurisdiction Coalition LL Life Link Coalition LOC Level of Care DCF loc Location General LS Licensing Specialist Coalition LTFC Long Term Foster Care Coalition M Mother Child Welfare MAPP Model Approach to Partnerships in Parenting Child Welfare MAS Maintenance Adoption Subsidy DCF MCR Missing Child Record DCF MCS Manatee Children's Services Coalition MCSB Manatee County School Board General MCSO/MSO Manatee County Sheriff's Office General MCSV Manatee County Supervised Visitation General MCTS Missing Children Tracking System Coalition MDC# Medicaid number General MDT Multidisciplinary Team DCF ME Medical Examiner General MED Medication Medical MED CHECK Pharmacological Medicaid MEPA Multiethnic Placement Act DCF MG Manatee Glens Corporation Coalition MGF Maternal Grandfather Coalition MGM Maternal Grandmother Coalition 11 MGP Maternal Grandparents Coalition Misd Misdemeanor DCF MMH Manatee Memorial Hospital General Mo/s Month or Months General MOU Memorandum of Understanding DCF MRC Multidisciplinary Review Committee Coalition MSO Manatee Sheriff's Office Medicaid MTP Master Treatment Plan Medicaid Mx Mother DCF NCIC National Crime Information Center DCF NCMEC National Center for Missing and Exploited Children DCF NJCM Non Judicial Case Manager Coalition NLJ No Legal Jurisdiction Coalition NPPD North Port Police Department General O Other Coalition OAG, AG Office of the Attorney General DCF Obj Objective General OCS Out of County Services DCF OD Right eye Medical OHC Out of Home Care DCF OOH/OOHC Out-of-Home/Out-of-home Care Coalition OPA Operations Program Administrator DCF OS Left eye Medical OTI Out of Town Inquiry DCF p After Medical P Plan General P/D Prevention/Diversion General P/P Pasco/Pinellas Coalition Pa Parent DCF PCR Permanent Commitment Review Coalition PCSSR Permanent Commitment Social Study Report Coalition PD Police Department DCF PD Public Defender's Office Legal PDS, PDR Pre-Dispositional Study/Report DCF PFFC Preserving Families and Fostering Connections DCF PGF Paternal Grandfather Coalition 12 LICENSING 1. Why do I have to be licensed to take shelter or foster children into my home? Section 409.175 of the Florida Statues mandates the Department of Children and Families or the designated child placement agency in the county to license and set standards for children in foster family homes, emergency shelter homes and family group homes. The statute states that “no person, family foster home or child caring agency shall receive a child for continuing full time care or custody unless they have first procured a license from the agency to provide such care.” This requirement does not apply to the following: a. b. c. A person who is a relative of the child by blood, marriage or adoption. A person who is a legal guardian. A person who has received a child from the agency or a child placing agency or intermediary for the purpose of adoption pursuant to Chapter 63, F.S. 2. What is a foster home? Family foster homes are those homes that offer a child who has been removed from his/her parents a stable environment and set of relationships in a home while a permanent solution is sought. The goal is always to return the child to the parents/caregivers they were removed from. All foster care providers sign the Partnership Agreement, agreeing to be part of a team with the Safe Children Coalition and community partners to promote the well-being of children in care through providing them normal childhoods as well as loving and skillful parenting. 3. Who will do my licensing? Sarasota Family YMCA, Inc. is a not-for-profit, child placing agency responsible for coordinating your completion of the required licensing activities and providing a recommendation on licensure to The Department of Children & Families. A licensing specialist will review your paperwork and will assess your family for licensure, coordinate the completion of licensing requirements through visits to your home, inspections, safety assessments, and a homestudy. They will assist you with any questions you might have regarding your license. 4. How often will I be relicensed? Each foster home must be relicensed on an annual basis. 120 days prior to the expiration of your license, you will receive a relicensing packet from your Licensing Specialist initiating the relicensing process. All requests for relicensure must be submitted no later than forty-five days before expiration. 5. What should I expect at the time of my annual relicensure? a. b. c. Completion of paperwork sent to you by SCC staff. Home consultation with your Licensing Specialist. Sanitation (health) inspection and fire inspection, if required. 13 d. e. f. g. h. i. Evaluations completed by the SCC Team regarding care of the children in your home during the year and your ability to work as a team member. Foster Parent evaluation of SCC staff regarding the support you have received during the year. Abuse Registry and law enforcement checks. Verification that each foster parent has completed 16 hours of in-service training. Verification that a minimum of two fire drills (at six month intervals) have been held during the year. The dates of the drills will be requested. copies of auto insurance card and current pets rabies vaccine The Licensing Specialist will use all information gathered to make a recommendation regarding continued licensure. 6. What type of training will be required to meet the relicensure requirements? And what kind of training meets the requirement? Sixteen hours of required verified training, per foster parent, per year. Training that will assist the adults to be better equipped to deal with the various issues related to the children in their homes meets the requirement. You will be notified of training opportunities offered by SCC. 7. What is the law regarding confidentiality? Who can I share information with? Confidential information about a child and/or their family may only be discussed with professionals working with the child or other authorized persons who are involved in a child’s case plan. Information should be shared on a need to know basis only. Your friends, relatives and neighbors will be naturally curious about the child(ren) placed in your home. You need to explain to them that you appreciate their interest, but that you cannot share information about a child’s background, their issues, or the legal progress of a case. Identifying information, including name or photo of a foster child, may not be given to the media. You must be sure that media photographers do not take pictures of your child. Facebook- Pictures of foster children may be displayed on your facebook page however they are not to be identified by name or the fact that they are foster children. Additionally, you must keep your facebook profile private, viewable only by your facebook friends. During the licensing process and every year thereafter, you will be asked to sign a HIPAA/Confidentiality statement. Under Florida Statutes, breaking confidentiality is a misdemeanor and punishable by a fine. The requirement to maintain confidentiality is also a licensing requirement and failure to do so may result in a licensing violation and possibly the loss of your foster home license. Equally important, the children in your care do not need to experience a loss of trust or privacy by hearing information about them or their families discussed publicly. Remember, be discreet. Inquiries can be handled diplomatically. 14 If you have any questions about confidentiality and when it is and is not appropriate to divulge confidential information, please consult with your Licensing Specialist, Foster Parent Mentor, Foster Parent Laison or the child’s case manager. It requires self-discipline not to talk about their problems or backgrounds with unauthorized persons, but the dignity and integrity of the child(ren) in your care must be a priority. 8. What are the rules concerning where children who live in my home may sleep? It is required that each child has at least 40 square feet of living space in the bedroom Each child must have their own permanent bed (trundle beds and rollaway beds are not allowed) and adequate storage space Children of different genders may not share a bedroom once either child reaches the age of three (3); Children may not share a room with an adult (except infants under the age of twelve months in a non-dropside crib); A fold out couch may be used only as a temporary arrangement; this type of arrangement requires prior authorization from SCC Licensing and/or Placement; An arrangement other than the above must have special approval by the licensing specialist. If bunk beds are used, a child must be 6 years of age or older to sleep on the top bunk 9. Are there licensing rules about safety? The home must be tested for radon gas. The home must be free from objects, materials, and conditions that are dangerous to children. Medications, poisonous chemicals and cleaning materials must be kept in a locked place and not accessible to children. Pets must have current rabies vaccinations. Potentially dangerous pets will have a safety risk assessment performed. A working smoke detector needs to be in each sleeping area. Fire drills must be held, and documented every six months, and when a new child is placed in the home; and for homes with more than 5 children, fire drills must be conducted monthly. The home must have a 2A10BC fire extinguisher on each floor of the home. Alcoholic beverages should be stored out of reach of children, preferably locked. The home cannot be heated by unvented gas heaters. All fireplaces, space heaters, and hot surfaces must be shielded against accidental contact. If your home has burglar bars, you must demonstrate that they can be easily released to allow exit or that other means of exit are easily available for each sleeping area. If children age 5 and under are desired for placement, all safety standards of the Infant Safety Checklist must be met. 15 These are safety regulations that are included in the licensing standards. Your own instincts and knowledge about safety issues are also crucial to ensure the safety of the children in your home. 10. What if my home or surrounding property has a water hazard, such as a swimming pool, lake, or fountain? All adults licensed as foster parents living in the home need to complete an approved Basic Water Safety Course. All doors and windows leading out of the house must have safety locks. The locks must be out of reach of small children. A Home Safety Plan must be signed by SCC staff and foster parents. 11. What if my home has a swimming pool? The pool must be enclosed on all four sides. Gates and doors leading to the yard need to be locked at all times. If you have sliding doors leading to the pool area, it is strongly suggested that you install a child safety fence as an added safety feature. The pool must be kept clean at all times. Swimming pools must be equipped with one of the following life saving devices: 1. Ring buoy; 2. Rescue tube; or 3. Other flotation device with a rope attached which is sufficient in length to cover the area. At all times, children in the pool must be accompanied by an adult who knows how to swim and will apply the rules of water safety. For above ground pools, the ladder must be removed when not in use. Children who do not know how to swim should be offered swimming lessons as soon as possible. If you add a swimming pool after you are licensed, call your Licensing Specialist at SCC to ensure compliance with licensing policies. 12. What if I have a hot tub in my home? The hot tub must have a locked cover. At all times, children in the hot tub must be accompanied by an adult. Use of hot tubs is not recommended for young children. 13. What if I decide to move? A License to Provide Foster Care is NOT transferable, meaning it is issued to the identified parent, at the identified location. It is understandable that families may choose to move, however it is important to remember that your license must be transferred within 30 days after moving. The license transfer will require updated inspections and radon testing, a new floor plan, disaster plan and licensing recommendations to reflect capacity 16 and other changes. Contact your Licensing Specialist as soon as you learn about your move so they may initiate the transfer process. Notice must be at least 30 days. 14. What are the laws about children being in car seats and in seat belts? Children in foster care must always wear a seat belt or be in a car seat when in a motor vehicle. Children under the age of four must be in an approved car seat. The Department of Motor Vehicles recommends the following child restraints: 0-9 months or 20 pounds: 9 Months to 4 years (20-50 pounds): 4 years and older (over 40 pounds): Up to 4’9’” tall or under 80 pounds Infant Carriers (in the back seat) Children Car Seats (in the back seat) Car Seat / Booster Seat Booster Seat NO CHILD UNDER THE AGE OF 12 IS ALLOWED IN THE FRONT SEAT Free car Seats are available for foster parents through several local organizations. For more information contact the following: the Florida Highway Patrol Safe Kids Coalition (813) 6326859 X329. 15. May foster children ride in a car with a teenager driving? Yes. However, the Florida Department of Licensing (DOL) has strict rules governing the ability of minors to transport other minors. Please consult with your insurance company and DOL before allowing teenagers to transport your foster children. Any plan should be documented on the child’s Normalcy plan and kept with the child’s file. 16. Can children in foster care ride in the back of a pickup truck? On a motorcycle? No. Chapter 65C-13 of the Florida Administrative Code specifically states that foster parents may not transport children in foster care in the back of pickup trucks, on motorcycles, or any other method of transportation that would be dangerous to the child. 17. Can a child living in my home ride in a boat? Discuss your plans to take the child in a boat with your child’s SCC Team. If possible, they should get the child’s parents’ permission through the child’s Case Manager. Adults driving the boat should be experienced boaters who have completed a Coast Guard approved safety course on boating. Children must be at least 3 years of age and always wear life preservers. Safety precautions must be followed at all times. 18. What happens if I am accused of neglecting or abusing a child in my home? If a report of abuse is received regarding a licensed foster home, and it meets the criteria for a report, a child protective investigator (CPI) will be assigned to investigate the allegation. This can be a very difficult process for families, even if the allegations are unfounded. Whenever possible, the licensing representative will accompany the CPI to support you during the initial investigation. The CPI will assess the information available 17 to determine if the child may remain safely in your home or if he/she should be placed in another licensed home until the investigation is complete. Often the CPI works with the SCC Team to make this determination. If the child is placed in another home, the CPI, licensing representative and SCC Team will determine if it is appropriate for you to visit the child during the investigation, based on the information from the investigation and documentation in the case file. Your home will be placed on administrative hold for placement of additional children until the investigation is complete.. A good source of support for you during an investigation are other foster care providers who have been through investigations of abuse or neglect, and FAST, Foster Allegations Support Team. FAST is a group of foster parents who have been trained through the Florida State Foster & Adoptive Parent Association to give non-judgmental support during an investigation. Call 1-800-FAST-119 or email fast4help@yahoo.com to obtain the names of local FAST volunteers. 19. What if I suspect a child has been abused or neglected? Foster parents are required to report immediately any suspicions or indications of child abuse or neglect to the Abuse Hotline and to the child’s SCC Team. The number to call is 1-800-962-2873 (1-800-96-ABUSE). Your identity is guaranteed, by law, to remain confidential. Your report status is confidential but you may be questioned by the investigator and some of your statements may be used in the court record. The court record will not indicate that you called in the report. 20. How can I protect myself from allegations of abuse or neglect? Ask for complete information about a child you are considering for placement. You need information such as this: a. b. c. d. Known details regarding past abuse; Known details regarding the effects of the abuse; Known details regarding special behaviors towards adults or children which resulted from the abuse; Known details regarding the child’s medical background. If the child has been exposed to sexualized behaviors or is sexually reactive, it is important to establish some preventive “house rules” and a safety plan in accordance with CFOP 175-88 (the Florida policy for the Prevention and Placement of Child Victims and Aggressors Involved in Child-on-Child Cases in Substitute Care) a. b. c. d. e. f. If possible, give the child his/her own bedroom; If the child has abused other children, carefully assess the sleeping arrangements; Can your bedroom be between the bedroom of that child and that of the other children? Establish firm rules about who is allowed in whose bedroom and under what conditions; Have rules about using the bathroom and privacy; Have a dress code which includes the type of clothing that is acceptable; 18 g. h. i. Establish common sense rules to guide the expression of affection between the child and others; Indicate that secrets between foster family members and their foster children are not acceptable; Establish guidelines regarding who may be left alone, with whom, for how long, and under what circumstances. When you have identified a child’s special needs, ask for training to deal with the child’s needs. If you need assistance or services for your child, communicate with the child’s SCC Team. Request assistance early. It is important to keep the SCC Team informed of successes and problems. Waiting to ask for help can result in the problem becoming more serious and increases the risk of an allegation of abuse being made. Asking for help is not a sign of inadequacy. Documentation of significant occurrences during placement can only help in case planning and during an investigation. Some suggestions for documentation are these: a. b. c. d. e. f. g. h. i. j. Keep a daily log Take brief notes outlining a major happening Include details such as special family activities, visitation with the child’s family, etc. Note significant health problems; all illnesses or accidents should be reported to the case manager immediately Note significant emotional/behavioral difficulties and when they occur. Example: does the child exhibit these difficulties before or after a visit? Note any marked change in child’s mood, behavior, or relationships. Note the child’s successes and special achievements Describe any situation, including discipline, where it is believed the child might misunderstand the behavior/relationship or intent of the foster family. Note any request you make for service or assistance including the date and person. Remember to report all incidents to the SCC Team and to complete incident reports as needed. Be sure to document incidents, contacts with team and all follow up. 21. What are some acceptable forms of discipline for children in foster care? The State of Florida recommends foster parents use the Positive Behavior Change approach for disciplining children in their care. This discipline technique seeks to increase desirable behavior through the use of positive reinforcement. Foster parents are expected to define rules which establish limits and types of acceptable behavior. These rules must be clearly explained to each child and equally applied to all children. Please contact your Licensing Specialist for training resources. 22. What forms of discipline are not allowed? As a part of the licensing process to become a foster parent, you signed the Discipline Policy not to use corporal punishment Call the SCC team before taking action if you 19 have any questions. Here are some examples of punishment which may not be used with children in foster care: a. Corporal punishment or the threat of corporal punishment: spanking slapping pinching shaking hair pulling hand tapping b. Withholding food, clothing or shelter. c. Verbal abuse or critical remarks about a child or his/her family. d. Emotional abuse: shaming ridiculing humiliating e. “Time Out” in unlighted, locked, poorly ventilated, or cramped areas. “Time Out” periods should not exceed one minute for each year of age up to age twelve. f. Denial of visitation or phone contact with birth parents, siblings, GAL or the child’s SCC Team. g. Cruel and unusual punishments (examples include, but are not limited to, hot pepper sauce or soap to curb swearing). h. Threats of removal from home. I. Excessive chores that endanger a child’s health and interfere with time needed for eating, sleeping, doing homework, and relaxing. REMEMBER – WHEN IN DOUBT, DON’T DO IT! 23. What happens if I use a form of discipline that is not allowed? Circumstances may require that the incident be investigated by a Child Protective Investigator and/or Licensing Specialist. Possible consequences include implementation of a corrective action plan requiring completion of specific tasks. Closure of your home could result if infractions warrant that level of action. To prevent a situation from reaching this point, contact your child’s SCC Team for assistance in handling problematic behavior as soon as possible. 20 PLACEMENT 1. Who will contact me to place children in my home? The Placement Coordinator from the SCC will make the initial call to you to discuss a possible placement in your home. After-hours and on weekends, the on-call worker for placement will contact you for placements. 2. Will all of the information about a child be given to me when I take a child into my home? All known information about the reasons the child was brought into care, and his/her physical, emotional, developmental, educational and behavioral status should be shared with you. You should be prepared to ask questions that you wish to have answered. Sometimes after a child is placed in your home, you may hear information that the SCC Team does not know. Please share information that you think may be important with the child’s team. (Example: Family information, information about abuse, etc.) If the child has had a previous foster care placement, you may want to talk to the child’s prior foster parent for their input on the child’s behavior, strengths and needs. If you feel that you are not receiving adequate information, please inform the SCC team. 3. What is the Child Resource Record? The Child Resource Record(CRR), formerly called the “Yellow Jacket”, is a black binder that is provided to the foster parent or caregiver at the time a child is placed in your home. This binder contains important documents and information relating to the child’s history and needs. The Child Resource Record should include five sections: 1. Consent/Legal Documents (court orders, case plan, release of information, placement letter) 2. Medical/Dental/Vision Records (physicals, Medicaid or other insurance information, immunization records) 3. School Information (report cards, IEP/testing results, school based assessments or evaluations) 4. Child Information (birth certificate, social security card, pictures of the child and family, list of the child’s likes and dislikes) 5. Caregiver Resources (contact log, caregiver log, and record review log) The Child Resource Record will include a checklist providing more specific information as to what is placed in each section and who is responsible for ensuring the handbook is updated. Please read this page completely for further details. 4. When are brothers and sisters placed in the same home and when are they separated? Whenever possible, siblings will be placed in the same home. Sometimes due to lack of bed space or behavior problems, it is necessary to separate siblings. The possibility of placing them back together is a high priority and continues to be explored. You may be 21 asked to take in the child's sibling in your home or asked to assist with moving the child from your home to that where their sibling is placed. 5. Are children placed in homes of similar culture? Whenever possible, children are placed in homes of similar culture. If this is not possible, efforts are made to place children with families who are sensitive to the child’s cultural heritage and will help the child maintain and continue to develop that sense of identity that is tied to the birth heritage. 6. If I am licensed for a certain number of children, can more children than that ever be placed in my home? A waiver and/or an exception to policy can be granted to allow this under special circumstances determined by the agency responsible for licensing. You should never be over capacity without proper authorization having been secured by the Placement Coordinator. A waiver is a process in which the licensing and placement teams assess the needs of the children being considered for your home and assess the ability of your family to meet this need. The waiver is initially evaluated after one month and then every ninety days to determine if the child(ren) are getting all of their needs met. A waiver is contingent on whether your family has enough space and beds to allow additional children into the home. 7. If a child placed in my home needs clothing immediately, can I buy the clothing and expect to be paid back? When a child is initially sheltered into care and if they come to your home with little to no belongings, they may be eligible to receive initial clothing funding. This funding is not available if a child moves from one foster home to another. Children age 0 -5 can receive $60, children 6-12 can receive $100 and children 13 and up can receive $150.00. To find out if a child in your home is eligible for this money, you will need to ask the Placement Specialist who is placing the child in your home. If your child is eligible, you may purchase clothing, mail the receipts to the licensing department along with your name, and the child for whom the clothing was purchased. The reimbursement for this will be added to your board rate check. It is important to ask the Protective Investigator who removes the child (or the SCC Team if the child is already under our supervision) to ask the parent for clothing for the child. If that request produces no clothing or personal items, talk about that with the Protective Investigator or SCC Team and let them know your need so we can collectively provide the items. Do not make purchase without prior approvals if you expect to be reimbursed for the items purchased. Emergency clothing is available through the SCC Clothes Closet. 22 8. How much will I get reimbursed for the needs of foster children in my care? Foster parents receive a daily or monthly board rate for the care of children in their home, as well as money for clothing, allowances and incidentals the children will need. This is not considered income by the IRS. It is considered reimbursement for the care of children and is prorated based on the number of days in the month. If you have extraordinary expenses while caring for a child, communicate the child’s need to your Case Manager Team and we can begin a financial planning activity specifically addressing the need and community resources. 9. Should I keep receipts for the clothing and incidentals I purchase for my foster child? Yes, you should keep receipts so you have a record of how the child’s share of the board rate was spent. Keeping good records will help the child keep track of personal items. An inventory list should be made. Clothing and other items belonging to or purchased for the child should follow the child if he/she moves from your home. 10. What can I expect to come with the child? Each child should come with all available information, records, and a letter of care and custody. All that belongs in the records may not be available at the time of placement, especially if the child is in shelter status; at a minimum, you should receive the following: Child’s name and birth date (if known) Reason for placement Medical information (request the names of the child’s physician and dentist) Medication, if available, or directions on how to secure it Worker’s name and telephone number (supervisor’s also) On-call information for evenings and weekends for use in case of emergency. Child’s medical card. Personal belongings of child 11. How do I answer the child’s questions about being in foster care? Give age-appropriate responses and be honest. Do not be judgmental towards the child’s family in your response. If you do not know the answers or what to say, say so. Tell the child you or he/she can get information from the Case Manager and then please remember to follow up. 12. What is a Life Book? The Life Book is a combination of a story, diary, scrap book, and photo album. It is an important collection of the child’s history that helps the child with his/her identity. The best time to begin a Life Book is when a child comes into the child welfare system. Any available information about the child’s birth family, family history, and developmental information should be collected. During the child’s stay in your home, his/her history 23 should be recorded. This can be done with drawings and artwork done by the child, pictures, written recordings of events, keeping medical information and copies of school programs, report cards and photos. Be sure to include pictures of your home and family. You will be doing the child(ren) a great service if you take the time to develop a Life Book for them. 13. Can I have a child in my home baptized or confirmed? Only if the child’s birth parents have given written permission. If you have a relationship with the child’s parents, you can make a mutual decision to pursue this goal. If the parents do not agree, you should not have the child baptized or confirmed. The child’s SCC Team may be able to help. Be sure to discuss your plans with the SCC Team. 14. What if the child is of a different religion and wants to attend a church or synagogue of his/her own religion? It is important to a child’s identity to preserve their heritage whenever possible. One of your responsibilities as a foster parent is to give your child the opportunity to participate in the faith they or their birth family choose. 15. Can I include a child in foster care in my family religious activities? Yes, however a child should not be forced into attendance. Baby-sitting should be obtained for a child who does not choose to attend religious activities with you. The baby-sitter must be a fully screened and approved adult. 16. Can I take a child on a trip with me? If you are planning a trip and want to take the child with you, you should discuss your plans with the child’s Case Management Team as early as possible. Taking the child on family vacations is encouraged whenever possible because this makes the child feel more a part of your family. However, the rules may vary depending on the legal status of the child. For shelter children, you will need a court order to travel out-of-district or out-of-state. You may travel within the State of Florida with children in foster care status, but out- ofstate travel requires a court order. The case manager must be contacted if travel plans include an overnight stay away from home. A good relationship between you and the child’s birth family can help facilitate your travel plans. Always consult with the child’s Case Management Team before you plan to travel with the child. When traveling, be sure to take all Safe Children Coalition emergency contact information with you. 17. Can I cut/perm/color a child’s hair? These decisions and responsibilities should remain with the child’s birth parents whenever possible. If the child is in foster care, the SCC Team may be able to ask the parents’ permission, or can advise you. You should never alter the child’s hairstyle without the parents’ or SCC Team’s permission. You should not cut the hair of a child in shelter status unless it is medically necessary to treat head lice or other scalp problems. When placements last for an extended period of 24 time, a light trim to keep hair at the same length is allowed. You must first obtain parental or the protective investigator’s permission. 18. What do I need to know to provide good hair and skin care for children of a different race or culture than mine? Proper hygiene, hair and skin care are important for the well-being and self esteem of all children. Foster parents providing care for children of a different race or culture may need to familiarize themselves with basic care techniques to ensure that their foster child(ren) will appear well groomed and cared for. Your child’s case manager, a hair stylist or your child’s doctor can provide assistance. Caring for African American skin and hair requires special treatment. Some tips include: Apply moisturizers (lotion) frequently and liberally, especially after bathing. Skin may scar easily. Avoid use of harsh soaps and skin products that may dry the skin. Avoid using shampoos that dry the hair (such course hair needs its natural oils). Some recommended shampoos are Cream of Nature, New Era, or other products designed specifically for this type of hair. Do not shampoo hair more than once a week or less than once bi-weekly. Apply oil to the hair and scalp regularly to prevent from drying and breaking. Guidelines: Maximum-Daily/Minimum-Weekly. Some recommended products are TCB, B&B, Super Glo, Bergamont, Dark & Lovely Oil, and other products designed specifically for this type of hair. If a chemical hair relaxer (straightener) or chemical curly permanent has been applied to the hair, it is important to continue proper maintenance and reapplications or the hair will begin to break at the root. (Request information from Case Manager on whether there has been a chemical treatment applied.) Consult a hair care professional who specializes in this hair type for information and routine care. Check out hair and skin care books at public libraries. Look for magazines that contain information on the care of this type of hair and skin. If unsure, always consult with the case manager. 19. What do I do if a child runs away? Call the police to make a missing person report. Be prepared to provide the date of birth, and social security number of the child, a physical description, including his/her clothing, and provide a picture, if possible. If it is during working hours, contact the child’s Case Manager or protective investigator. If after working hours, call the Case Manager’s on-call number. 25 20. What do I do if the child in my home is arrested? Call the child’s Case Manager and/or report the incident to the after-hours on-call. While the child is absent from the home, board payment may continue if the plan includes returning the child to your home. Each situation is reviewed on a case-by-case basis. This can be a frustrating and sometimes embarrassing experience for foster parents. As was discussed in the previous questions, try not to take this personally. It is very probable that this is a symptom of other problems, not a rejection of you or a reflection of your skills. While the child is absent from the home, board payment may continue for up to two weeks if the plan is to return the child to your home. 21. What do I do if a child dies in my home? Call 911 for emergency assistance. Then call the child’s Case Management Team, contacting supervisory or management staff of the Case Management agency that is serving the child. The child’s Case Management Team will notify the birth family. After regular hours, call the emergency after-hours number provided by the child’s team. 22. What do I do if I need to talk to a member of the Safe Children Coalition/Case Management Team after working hours? You will be provided with an on-call phone number immediately upon getting assigned a team. These after-hour contacts should relate to emergencies only. Please contact the following numbers for assistance. During the day, dial x100 and a receptionist will assist you. After 5pm and on weekends, the message will direct you to the appropriate on-call number. DeSoto County: 863-494-5082 Manatee County: 941-721-7670 Sarasota County: 941-371-4799 23. What should I send with the child who is moving from my home? At a minimum, all clothing, toys and personal belongings purchased with clothing allowance and board payment should go with the child, as well as any gifts the child received while in your home. Also, send any belongings the child brought with him/her. If you have gathered material for a Life Book or put one together, please send this with the child. The child should have an up-to-date Child Resource Record. The Medicaid card, any current medication, instructions, and the name and telephone number of the child’s physician should go with the child. Some foster parents write down the child’s schedule, likes, dislikes, and fears, as a help to the child and the next caretaker. 24. What if we don’t agree with the course a child’s case is taking, or if a child is to be removed from our home and we want him/her to remain with us? The issues surrounding a child’s case are very complex and substitute care providers are encouraged to be a part of the child’s team by attending staffings, court reviews, etc. so that you may remain informed and have the opportunity to provide vital information 26 regarding the well being and planning for the child. In spite of everyone trying to work in the child’s best interest, conflicts may arise. If such a situation occurs, you should first try to resolve the problem with the Case Manager. If you and the Case Manager cannot reach an understanding, contact the agency supervisor. You may want to arrange a meeting between the three of you. If the problem or conflict cannot be resolved at this level, you and the agency can request a “staffing”. You may request a copy of the Safe Children Coalition - CBC Grievance Policy that will explain the resolution process. 25. My foster child is being moved to another home. How can I help the child make the transition to the new home? Your participation in the move may be beneficial to the child, depending on the circumstances surrounding the move. Discuss your thoughts with the child’s Case Manager to determine what will be in the child’s best interest. If you do assist in the move, coordinate the time with the child’s Case Manager and other support providers working with the child. One should always consider what information would they need or like to have prior to the placement of a child in the home? What would you expect to come with the child? MEDIA 1. What if a reporter wants to interview me or a child in foster care? You must contact the SCC Client and Community Relations Specialist at 941 371-4799 ex 110 to determine if you can allow the reporter access to the child. Also include the child’s case manager and supervisor for input to determine if an interview with the child is appropriate. Foster parents may not give permission for a child to be interviewed. Their names, identifying photographs, and background histories are not to be shared. The Safe Children Coalition may give permission for children for whom parental rights have been terminated. You have a right to be interviewed and photographed by the media. You must be very careful to guard the identity and confidentiality of any child in your care. You may ask someone from the Safe Children Coalition to be with you during the interview if you wish. You have the right to terminate the interview at any time if you are uncomfortable with any questions you are asked. 27 Social Security (Disability) 1. Should I apply for SSI for a child in foster care? The agency will apply for SSI for children who may be eligible. If you apply and receive SSI for a child, you will be asked to repay it. If the agency receives SSI for a child, a portion of the benefit is used for the child’s board payment and the remainder is put into a trust fund. If your child has special needs or desires, you may contact the child’s Case Manager to determine if use of the funds for the item is appropriate. These needs can include clothing, recreation, therapeutic equipment, home furnishings, personal needs, and some miscellaneous items such as magazine subscriptions, television, computers, bicycles, etc. Any items purchased with the child’s money belongs to the child and must go with the child when he/she leaves your home. The board payment you receive for a child who receives SSI is to be used only for that child. The SSI trust fund is to be used to supplement the child’s special needs. The one exception to this rule is a child in foster care in a home licensed by Developmental Services (DS) where DS is paying the entire cost of the child’s care. In this case, the Developmental Services parent may apply for and receive the child’s SSI. If the Children and Families Program is paying any part of the Developmental Service board payment, the agency will apply for SSI for the child, and the foster parent may request funds for expenditures as earlier described. 28 VISITATION 1. Who can I expect to visit the child(ren) in my home? 2. Case management and therapeutic staff of Safe Children Coalition agencies. Guardian Ad Litem, if one has been appointed Licensing Staff CPI (if child is shelter status) Family Support Workers Foster Parent Liaison Developmental screeners How often will a Case Management Team member be visiting children placed my home? in Children will receive services from the Safe Children Coalition agencies based on their needs. Generally, children in shelter status (right after removal and for the first few months) will see their case manager at least once a week. The case manager will visit the child in your home a minimum of once a month once the dispositional court hearing takes place and the child’s status changes from shelter care to foster care. The child’s case manager should inform you of how many visits will occur in the home. Your Licensing Specialist will visit your home at a minimum once annually for Relicensing and also on a quarterly basis. 3. What do I do if a child’s Case Management Team is not visiting the child in my home? All children in out-of-home care must be visited by a Case Manager minimally one time per month in your home. If you are concerned about the lack of contact, call the Case Management Agency and ask when the next visit is scheduled. Call the agency supervisor if you have a concern about the visitation pattern of a child in your home. If you still have concerns, you should contact your Licensing Specialist, the Licensing Supervisor, or you may also contact one of the Safe Children Coalition’s Management Team. They will help you resolve the issue with the agency staff. If the child in your home is not visited by the Case Management Team at least once each calendar month, notify officials by calling 1-800-FLA-FIND (1-800-352-3463). 4. Should I keep a record of visits by the agency workers and the GAL? Yes. Please make an entry of all visits and contact on your calendar. Foster parents must use a contact log to document any and all contacts they or the child have with anyone concerning the child. These contacts include caseworkers, school personnel, the child’s parents, therapists and doctors. 5. Do the children in my home have to visit their parents? Yes, unless there is a court order that states visits may not occur. Parents have a legal right to visit with their children and the location will be determined by those involved and 29 will be appropriate for the situation. If you have a concern about the effect of visitation on a child, discuss your concern with the child’s Case Manager and Clinical Specialist, if applicable. 6. Can I arrange for a child in my home to visit with a sibling in another home? Almost all children need to have regular on-going contact with their siblings and most foster parents will be encouraged to arrange these contacts. Check with the children’s Case Manager before you arrange visits. If siblings are placed separately, frequent and regular visitation must occur. Foster parents should support these connections and work cooperatively with the Case Manager to schedule visits. 7. Can I allow other members of the child’s family to have contact with the child in my home? This is a case-by-case decision that must be made with the child’s Case Manager. Together you can decide what types of contact should occur (telephone, letters, visits), based on the best interests of the child. 8. Do I have to meet the parents of a child in my home? While it is not required, it is highly encouraged and can be very helpful to the child and the child’s family for the child’s parents to have contact and interaction with you. You should discuss the family situation with the child’s Case Management Team before you make a decision. 9. My child is often upset and acts up before and after family visits. Is this unusual? Not at all. Visits with their parents often stir up feelings in children which may be acted out in a variety of ways. Acting out does not always mean that visitation is having a negative impact on the child. These behaviors should, however, be shared with the Case Management Team. This information may enhance treatment. Should a child disclose abuse or neglect, the abuse registry must be notified immediately. Foster parents are required to report immediately any suspicions or indications of child abuse or neglect to the Abuse Hotline and to the child’s case manager. The number to the Abuse Hotline is 1-800-962-2873 (1-800-96-ABUSE). Your identity is guaranteed by law to remain confidential. 10. How can I help my child deal with these feelings? Let the child know that you are aware that visits stir up some feelings and that you are available to talk or listen if they wish. Be careful not to be judgmental of the child or the family in these discussions. The child has a right to his/her feelings, whatever they are. It is important to remember that these feelings may change from visit to visit or over time. 11. What if a child’s behavior becomes unacceptable before or after a visit? Let the child know that his/her feelings are important and should be expressed, but destructive actions are not allowed. Ask what you can do to help. If you have a 30 relationship with the child’s family, you may work together to help the child. Keep the child’s Case Management Team advised and use them as a resource for assistance. If the child is in therapy, work with the child and his/her therapist to deal with these issues. If the child is not in therapy, discuss the advisability of a referral with his/her Case Management Team. 12. What are the benefits of visitation? Regular and frequent visitation between child and his/her birth parents are an important part of foster care. It helps provide security for the child, encouragement for the birth parents, and helps maintain and restore the parent/child relationship. The quality of the visits is important to case planning as they provide insight into the progress and needs of the family. 13. What if a parent or stranger shows up and wants to take a child away from our home? First, try to determine the identity of the stranger. You are not allowed to release a child to anyone without the child’s Case Management Team’s permission. If it is the child’s parent, try to explain reasonably why you cannot allow an unscheduled visit. Handle the situation in the least traumatic manner for the child. If the parent or stranger refuses to leave, you have the right to call the police. Be sure to report any incidents like this to the child’s Case Management Team. All SCC staff should be able to provide an agency badge to identify themselves prior to releasing a child to them. If not, call our main offices to verify the person is an active employee. Contact the receptionist for verification. 31 HEALTH 1. Does my child have medical coverage? Yes, children in foster care are covered by Medicaid. Children should have a Medicaid card or a temporary form authorizing Medicaid when they are placed. If you do not get this, call the child’s Case Management Team. If the child is not on Medicaid, the Safe Children Coalition is responsible for their medical expenses. 2. What is Medicaid? Medicaid is health insurance provided by the state. Health care providers who choose to accept Medicaid provide the needed services and are paid a fixed fee for each service they provide. 3. Can I put my foster child on my insurance policy? In some instances, yes. This primarily depends on the child’s legal status. However, you will be responsible for any medical charges that come under your policy. Please consult with the case manager before placing a child under your insurance plan. 4. Are children placed in foster care checked for medical problems prior to placement? Within seventy-two hours of initial placement, all children are required to receive an Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment Services (EPSDT)/Well-Child Checkup. If the protective investigator felt immediate medical attention or an examination was needed prior to placement, this would have occurred. If you see any indications that medical treatment is needed after placement, do not hesitate to act in the child’s best interest. If you require help navigating the medical appointments and Medicaid system, please contact the WATCH nurse who is located at each service site. Sarasota’s nurse can be contacted at 371-4799 x156. Manatee and Desoto’s is at 721-7670 x102. 5. Should I sign papers giving permission to treat a child or accepting responsibility for payment? No. The case manager signs. This is not a liability that you should assume. For routine treatment, give the medical provider a copy of the court order authorizing medical care, or the medical consent form signed by the child’s parent and the child’s Medicaid card or Medicaid number. For any non-routine medical procedures such as surgery, notify the child’s Case Management Team in advance so they can get the parent’s consent or a court order. If the medical provider wants additional authorization, contact the child’s CASE MANAGEMENT Team. 32 6. What do I do if I don’t have a Medicaid card for a child who needs treatment? Always ask for the child’s card at the time of placement. If it’s not available, ask for the Medicaid number; in an emergency, this may be better than nothing at all. You should reasonably expect to have a card (temporary or permanent) delivered to you if you have an immediate need for it. If not, one should be mailed to you upon request. If you have an emergency and need help, call the case management agency. If after hours, please call the after-hours telephone number provided by your Case Management Team. 7. Who should take my child to appointments? Whenever possible, you should take the child to appointments. You are the person with whom the child is comfortable and you have the information the service provider will need. Be sure to maintain a medical log in the child’s resource record. Also make sure to bring the Healthcare Visit Form to all medical appointments. If you need assistance with an appointment, contact the child’s Case Management Team. The foster parent should complete the reimbursement form to document any and all contacts they or the child has with anyone concerning the child. These contacts include case worker, school personnel, the child’s parent, therapists and doctors. You may claim reimbursement for your mileage. See the Financial Issues section of this handbook for further information on how to do this . 8. What tests and examinations are provided by EPSDT/Well-Child Check-up? a. b. c. d. e. f. g. h. i. j. k. Health/Development History Physical Assessment Height, Weight, Growth Assessment Developmental Assessment Speech Assessment Referral to a Dentist Nutritional Assessment Vision Assessment Hearing Assessment Immunization(s) (shots) and Laboratory Tests EPSDT/Well-Child Check-up services also include treatment or referral for problems detected in the screening. It is your responsibility, in conjunction with the agency, to arrange for follow-up on medical, visual, hearing or dental care if recommended. 9. After the initial exam, what is the schedule for subsequent exams? a. b. c. d. e. f. g. 2 months of age 4 months of age 6 months of age 9 months of age 12 months/1 year of age 15 months of age 18 months of age 33 h. once every year from age 2 years – 21 years Immunizations follow a similar schedule. If required by a child’s screening may be scheduled more frequently or at different intervals. particular needs, 10. Does Medicaid cover dental services? Yes, the Medicaid Children’s Dental Program pays for basic services to eligible children through the calendar month of their twenty-first birthday. Covered services include: a. b. c. d. e. f. g. h. i. j. Diagnostic services such as exams, x-rays; Preventive services such as cleaning, fluoride treatments, instruction in oral hygiene; Space management therapy; Restoration services such as fillings, crown restorations; Endodontics, including root canal therapy; Periodontal treatment; Prosthodontics and dental repairs; Limited orthodontic treatment; Sealant; Emergency services. 11. What if my child has a hearing problem? The Medicaid Hearing Service Program includes a hearing evaluation, diagnostic testing, and procedures necessary to certify an individual for a hearing aid and repairs. Medicaid will pay for one hearing aid, ear mold, evaluation and dispensing every three years. Binaural Aids (2 hearing aids) or specialized aids require prior authorization. 12. Does Medicaid cover eye exams? The Medicaid Vision Services Program includes an initial visual examination, eyeglasses, fittings, dispensing and adjustment of eyeglasses and prepaid services. Medicaid can pay for one pair of eyeglasses every two years. The doctor can request a waiver of this time frame if medically necessary. 13. What drug services/prescriptions will Medicaid pay for? Here are some facts about what is covered, and some tips for using this service. a. Medicaid can pay for almost all prescription drugs, and some non-prescription products. b. Covered non-prescription products (over the counter) include: insulin syringes, blood glucose test strips, iron supplements, aspirin used as an antiinflammatory, contraceptive devices, and food supplements. c. Excluded services include experimental drugs, vitamins (except for prescription prenatal, one vitamin monthly for dialysis patients, fluorinated pediatric), blood, blood products, alcohol, DESI ineffective drugs, and appetite suppressants. d. Medicaid can pay for six prescriptions per month per eligible recipient. e. If a child in your care needs more than six prescriptions monthly, the pharmacist can request an exception for the number needed. 34 f. g. Use only one pharmacy each month. If you use two pharmacies during the same month, tell the second pharmacist that you have been to another pharmacy so they can coordinate claims. Medicaid does not pay for name brand drugs when a generic equivalent is available. 14. Can a child take psychotropic medications? Psychotropic medications may not be given to a child without the birth parent’s consent or a court order. These medications treat mental/emotional problems. Foster parents who care for children taking psychotropic medications will be offered and must complete required training 15. What do I do if the physician asks me questions that I cannot answer concerning the medical history of the child? Make a note of the questions which you cannot answer and contact the child’s Case Management Team. She/he may be able to get the answers for you. If the child has a parental visitation coming up soon, you may want to ask the parent these questions yourself or have your Case Management Team have them sign a release so the doctor can get a copy of the child’s health records. 16. I think my child needs counseling. What do I do? It is not uncommon for children who have experienced the kinds of losses children in foster care have had, to need help dealing with their feelings. Many children served through the Safe Children Coalition will have a therapist assigned at the same time the Case Management Team is assigned. If this has not happened, or if you are concerned about the level of intensity of care the child is receiving, you should contact the Case Manager and/or supervisor. Together you can decide what kind of a referral or additional assistance is needed. 17. What if a child placed in my home has head lice? It is a good practice to keep medication for treatment on hand. The local health agencies have good brochures on the treatment of head lice. If a child in shelter status is placed in your home with head lice, the agency will reimburse you for the cost of the initial treatment. Subsequent treatments should be obtained by prescription or from the Health Department (sometimes they will disburse the shampoo for free). This incident would require notifying the child’s Case Manager and the Placement Coordinator. 18. What if a child in my care needs emergency medical help? In all cases involving a life-threatening illness or injury, get the child to emergency medical treatment first (call 911 if needed), then contact the child’s Case Manager or the on-call supervisor. If it is not a life-threatening situation, transport the child to an appropriate medical facility. In either case, take the child’s Medicaid card and/or number with you as well as a copy of the child’s court order, then call the Case Management 35 Team. Do not sign any forms authorizing treatment, consenting to surgery, or assuming financial responsibility. An emergency court order may be necessary if the child’s parents are not available to sign for treatment. In dire emergencies, the hospital can obtain permission by telephone from a judge. The Case Management Team whom you have contacted will assist with the necessary arrangements. 19. What if a child in my home tries to commit suicide or needs emergency counseling? Notify your child’s Case Management Team immediately if a child is very depressed or talks about suicide, even indirectly. If a child makes a serious suicide attempt, or you think they may, emergency counseling or medical attention may be necessary. Call 911 if you think the situation is potentially life-threatening. If you feel it is not, contact the on-call Case Manager or supervisor for assistance. Follow the same procedures discussed above for medical emergencies. Again, do not sign any forms. Case Managers must assist with obtaining birth parent’s written consent or they must get consent through the court if birth parents refuse to sign. 20. What do I need to know about my foster child’s medication? It is important to know as much as you can about any medication that you child is taking. You should ask your child’s doctor questions about the proper use of the medication. The best questions to ask are: What is the proper dose and how often should it be taken? Should the medication be taken with meals or on an empty stomach? What time(s) of day should the medication be given? What should I do if a medication is not taken on time? How late is too late to give a missed dose? Are follow-up visits required for this medication? What possible side effects should I look for? Are there any allergic reaction warning signs? Is there a “Drug Information Sheet” I can have? 21. I’ve never had to lock up my medications before. Why would I do it now? Keeping all medications locked up and away from children is critical to preventing death or serious injury. Medications must be locked up and kept out of the reach of children and given only under adult supervision. 22. Do I have to make sure my foster child took the medication? Yes, children have been known to hide, give away, or even sell their medications. To make sure your child takes his/her medication, follow these easy steps: a. Give the child a glass of water to take with the medication. b. Watch the child take the medication and drink the water. c. Have the child open his/her mouth and lift his/her tongue to make sure the medication was swallowed. d. Talk with the child for a few minutes to make sure the medication was swallowed. 36 23. Should I keep a log of the medications my foster child is taking? Yes. It is necessary to document all medications your child is taking including over the counter medications. At a minimum, log the date, the name of the medication, and the amount given. In the event that your foster child gets sick, a doctor will need to know what medications your child has taken, at what times, and how often. These also include topical medications, ointments, etc. Written records will ensure that you can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information. Ultimately, this helps the child receive the best care possible. 24. I ran out of my foster child’s prescription. Is it okay if I use medication from another child’s bottle until I can get a refill? No. It is illegal to give one person’s prescription medication to another person, even if the prescriptions are the same. In addition, substituting medications may cause your child to have a bad reaction and become very ill. If a prescription runs out, get a refill from a 24-hour pharmacy. If it’s not possible to get a refill, contact the child’s doctor immediately for further instructions. 25. Is there a problem with giving my foster child more that one medication? Yes. Certain combinations of medications can be fatal when given together. Over-thecounter medications can be harmful if mixed with certain psychotropic drugs. Even overthe-counter remedies like pain relievers, cough syrup, and antacids can be harmful when mixed together. Foster Parents should always consult a doctor before giving a child more than one medication. Be sure to tell the doctor what other medications the child is taking and whether the child is allergic to any medication. 26. Are there any special rules or restrictions concerning children involved with Medical Children’s Services? Each child is reviewed on a case by case basis to determine if special rules or restrictions are needed. Please contact the Medical Children’s Services RN for details if your child is enrolled with Medical Children’s Services.. 27. Are foster parent’s authorized to dispense over the counter (OTC) medications to the foster children placed in their home? Yes*. In lieu of written permission from a parent, the shelter court order is sufficient documentation to authorize a foster parent to dispense OTC medications if they are used as intended. In keeping with the principles of family-centered practice, it is recommended that the foster parent or the case manager discuss this with the child’s parents and pediatrician. If you have questions regarding appropriate doses and the frequency of use, please consult with the child’s pediatrician. This is especially relevant if the child is on any prescribed medications as some combinations of OTC and prescribed medications can be deadly. Another precaution you can take is to verify drug interactions with the pharmacist. All prescriptions come with a drug interaction warning that should be read and understood before leaving the pharmacy. 37 As with all psychotropic and prescribed medications, please document when you dispense OTC medications by noting the day and time on the Medication Tracking Log. *For children in Medical Foster Care (MFC), a doctor must give specific and written consent prior to the child receiving OTC meds, regardless if child is on psychotropic medications. Foster Parents are given a specific form by MFC to submit to the child’s primary physician to obtain this permission. 28. How often should I follow up with my foster child’s doctor? Ask the doctor when the child needs to return for a check-up. Some medications need to be monitored closely through regular blood tests. These appointments are important to the youth’s safety and health because the doctor may need to adjust the dose or change the medication. You also should contact the doctor immediately to report any side effects or allergic reactions. Remember: Know as much as you can about your foster child’s medications. Lock up all medications. Always supervise your foster child while he/she is taking the medication. Keep a written log of the medication your foster child takes. Do not withhold prescribed medication for any reason without authorization from the doctor. Never substitute medications without doctor approval. Consult your foster child’s doctor before giving more than one medication. Follow up with your foster child’s doctor as directed. 38 CHILDCARE & RESPITE CARE 1. I need daycare for a child placed in my home. How do I arrange for this, and who pays for it? Out-of-home daycare for children in foster care must be provided in a licensed daycare home or facility. Check with the child’s case manager to see if daycare funding is available. If it is, the Case Manager will make a referral and help you through the process of securing childcare. The Placement Specialist will make the initial referral for children just coming into care. Please contact the Placement Supervisor with any questions. Funding is not available for childcare provided in your home. You must be willing to pay the cost of childcare if you choose this option. The child care provider in your home must meet the following criteria: a. Must be 18 yrs. or older b. Must have abuse check and local law enforcement checks c. Must have FBI fingerprinting clearance The foster parent and the child’s Case Manager must review the agency’s policies and practices with the provider before he/she begins to provide daycare. The discussion should include the following: a. Period of time service is to be provided b. Child’s needs and schedules c. Discipline and confidentiality policies d. Telephone numbers to reach the foster parents, the Case Manager, the child’s physician, and numbers for after-hours emergencies Rates The rate is determined at the time of registration and there may or may not be a balance due over and above the amount paid by ELC/CCC. This balance will be responsibility of the FP to pay and it will also be their responsibility to contact the SCC about possibility of reimbursement of said balance. Reimbursement If approved the Safe Children Coalition will reimburse in two ways: 1.) Refund. Submit receipts along with a copy of the billing by the child care provider of your assessed fee after you have paid this fee, to your child’s case manager on a monthly basis. 2.) Invoice. Provide the child’s case manager with an invoice from the daycare. This must list the days attended for the given month. Please note that all reimbursements may be subject to denial if they have not been provided for payment more than 60 days from the date of the billing by the child care provider or the dates the child was enrolled . In addition, ELC does not subsidize childcare at unlicensed facilities. If you are unsure if your current facility will qualify, please contact the Early Learning Coalition (ELC) at 757-2900 or go to www.elcmanatee.org. 39 Only a YMCA Child Welfare Specialist can approve reimbursements. This is to be done during the staffing process. The request for a staffing is child specific and should be made though the child’s case manager. Please include your licensing specialist on requests for staffing for your documentation purposes. Exceptions will be made infrequently and only to meet the needs of the child(ren). Your Child Welfare Specialists are: Manatee County – Manatee Glens: Dave Luebcke Manatee County – Youth and Family Alternatives: Dara Palmieri Sarasota County – Family Preservation Services: Lucia Branton Sarasota County – Youth and Family Alternatives: Lucia Branton DeSoto County – Family Preservation Services: Dara Palmieri If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your Licensing Specialist. 2. What is the Babysitter Policy for Foster Parents? It is the responsibility of the Safe Children Coalition (SCC) to ensure the safety and wellbeing of children in foster care. It is the intention of the SCC to give children in foster care a life as close to a normal as possible. It is often difficult to balance these goals. Some rules for babysitters are a matter of state law. This is a list of those rules: a. Baby-sitting in a licensed foster home where the child is placed – 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. All baby-sitters must be at least 16 years of age. Babysitter under 18 years of age may not baby-sit for more than 3 children. All baby-sitters must have yearly local law and abuse background checks Foster children may not baby-sit for other foster children at any time. An approved baby-sitter (at least 18 years old) may provide overnight baby-sitting services in the licensed home where the child is placed. b. Baby-sitting by another licensed foster parent in another licensed home – 1. Licensed foster parents can provide baby-sitting, overnight care and 24-hour care in their homes for other foster children. 2. When scheduling overnight care or 24-hour care, as arranged by two licensed foster parents, the Coalition Placement Coordinator and the case manager must be notified. c. Daycare/overnight care in a day care facility – 1. All family daycare centers and private homes providing baby-sitting services must be licensed. 40 2. Overnight care is allowed in the facility if the facility has an overnight license, but 24-hour care is not allowed. d. Other guidelines – 1. Other guidelines for baby-sitters are more difficult because they involve individual judgment. In making the important decision to entrust the care of your foster child to another person, keep the following mind: 2. Anytime supervision is relinquished to someone other than the foster parent, risk to the child increases. Is your decision in the best interest of the child? If the child is harmed because of that decision, could you justify your actions to the Court? The Media? Yourself? 3. Remember that we can provide background screening for any of the people you want to supervise your children. 4. Children may not be left unsupervised except in case by case situation for older/more mature children Foster Parent Responsibilities to the Coalition include: To know where and with whom the child is staying and the type of supervision the child is receiving when foster parents approve an outing or overnight activity. Children may not remain in an unlicensed setting for any time other than a planned, supervised outing or overnight activity without the explicit approval of the Coalition. 3. What happens when I need time away for myself? a. Foster Parents/families are entitled to 12 respite days per year, beginning July 1. Respite days do not have to be taken all at once. They are not cumulative from one year to the next. b. Twelve respite days are not deducted from the monthly board payment of the foster parent requesting respite. Respite days exceeding 12 will be deducted from the monthly board payment. c. Respite foster parents will be paid for the days the children are in their home, $15.00 per day if the children are in shelter or foster care. d. The respite form should be completed by the foster parent and the Case Management Team. Respite should be requested as soon as you know you will need it. The request must be made two weeks in advance. The Placement Coordinator will arrange for respite placement and notify the foster parent. The Safe Children Coalition welcomes your suggestions on other foster parents who might be willing to do respite care for you, or know the child(ren) in your care. 41 SCHOOL 1. How do I know which school my child will be attending? You can call the Office of Pupil Assignment or ask your Case Manager for assistance. The school your child will attend is determined by your address. Contact the school board in your local county. DeSoto School Board: 863-494-4222 Manatee School Board: 941-708-4971 (Parent Information Center) Manatee Project Heart: 941-708-4971 x222 (help with uniforms, lunches, & busing) Sarasota School Board: 941-927-9000 Sarasota Schoolhouse Link: 941-923-6100 (help with transitional support & busing) 2. Does the child have to change schools when he/she moves in with my family? The child may have to change schools if you live in a different school zone. If you and the child’s Case Management Team agree that the child should remain in the same school, you can apply for a Special Attendance Permit (SAP) from the principal of the school for which the child is zoned. However, you will most likely be responsible for transportation to and from school if you get the special permit. Approval for reimbursement of mileage costs may be obtained under special circumstances from a YMCA Child Welfare Specialist. Discuss this with your Case Management Team in advance. 3. Who registers the child for school, the child’s Case Manager or myself? Usually the child’s foster parent assumes this parenting responsibility. However, under special conditions, it may be appropriate for the child’s Case Manager to do it. If the child’s birth parents are actively involved with the child and can participate, they should be asked to accompany either the foster parent or the Case Manager to register the child in school. If the birth parent is unavailable to do this, the child’s foster parent usually assumes the responsibility. If the foster parent has a conflict that makes them unable to do this, the Case Management Team can assist. 4. What do I need in order to register my child for school? You will need proof of your residency, a Custody Form or Court Order, health information, and the child’s birth certificate, if available, unless the child has already been enrolled in a Florida school. 5. Who do I talk to if I have a problem with registration? Talk with the registrar first and then ask to speak to the principal. Call the child’s Case Manager if that doesn’t solve the problem. 42 6. Is a physical required to enter my child in school? Yes. A physical and immunizations are required before the child can start school. If the child had a school physical anywhere in Florida during the school year and this can be documented, another physical is not needed. 7. How do I know if my child has been immunized? Ask the birth family if they are available or ask the child’s Case Manager. If the child has been enrolled in the school system, this information should be available on their computer system. You may also contact the WATCH nurse. In Sarasota, call 371-4799 x100. In Manatee or DeSoto, call 941-721-7670 x102. 8. Should I tell the school that the child is in foster care? YES. This information is important for the school’s office and the child’s teacher to know. This will help them to be aware of possible safety issues and know not to release the child to his/her parents. This will also help them to understand the child’s behaviors and plan to meet the child’s needs. Information about who can or cannot pick up the child, and who can or cannot visit the child while at school, can be clearly noted on the child’s record. 9. Is my child eligible for the free lunch program? Yes. You may apply for this program at the school where your child attends. Eligibility is based on income. Income for this form for children in foster care is zero. 10. Who should attend school conferences and school activities? As the parent responsible for the day-to-day care of the child, you should actively participate in these events. The child’s birth parents should also be included, if possible. Check with the child’s Case Manager to see if your child’s family should be contacted. 11. Can I sign permission slips for my child to attend local field trips? Whenever possible, the birth parent(s) should sign for permission for the child to attend field trips. If this is not possible, the child’s Case Management Team may sign permission slips for local field trips such as trips to museums, libraries, etc. If a short turnaround makes signature by the birth parent or Case Management Team improbable, foster parents may sign. Please notify the Case Management Team if this should occur. Out-of-state trips or field trips that are out of the realm of traditional learning experience will require parental permission or a court order. 12. Should I buy my child’s school pictures? We think so! This is part of the child’s history - help preserve it! If the child’s birth parents are taking an active role in the child’s life, invite them to share the cost and share the pictures. You might share a picture with them even if they are only minimally involved! Note: Case Management Teams like pictures, too! 43 13. What if my child gets sick, injured, or is suspended from school? When you register your child for school, be sure to include emergency contact information so you can be reached. The school will call you. Arrange medical treatment, if needed. If the child needs to stay home, you need to make arrangements to stay home with the child. Be sure to keep your Case Management Team informed. 14. What if my teenager does not want to go to school? The legal age for “dropping out” is sixteen, but some school districts now have programs for children who are thinking about quitting. If you are having problems with your child and feel he/she is thinking about quitting school, please call the Drop Out Prevention Program. They want to help. Quitting school is a serious decision. The child’s parents must be involved in decision making on behalf of the educational planning of their child. The entire team youth, case manager, GAL, parent and foster parent should be involved in helping you and your child explore options like vocational training, GED, full time employment, etc. 15. My child has special needs and may not be able to learn in a traditional classroom setting; what should I do? Contact your child’s Case Management Team. Placement in exceptional student programs for children with Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD), Severe Emotional Disturbed (SED) and Emotional Handicap (EH) is possible. Testing may be necessary. The school system is equipped to help you and the Case Management Team (and birth family, if possible) make an informed decision about the best placement for the child. 16. What is Florida Diagnostic Learning Resource System (FDLRS)? This is a program that provides support to exceptional student education programs. FDLRS provides screening for children ages 3 to 5 years who may have problems with speech, hearing, motor coordination, concepts, behavior and vision. Older children who may qualify for special education programs are also eligible for services. Contact FDLRS. 17. Are there special programs for children with developmental delays? There are special services for children with developmental delays/disabilities in the community. If you suspect that your child has significant delays, discuss your observations with the child’s Case Management Team so you can formulate a plan to meet the child’s needs. 18. What if I need before or after-school care? Check with your school to see what programs are available. Every effort will be made to accommodate the needs of foster parents and children regarding the need for day care. These needs should be carefully considered at the time of placement. You can check with your child’s Case Management Team to see if funding is available to pay for this. Funding is generally provided only if the child is in an approved subsidized program or an 44 approved facility authorized by SCC. If you do not receive a timely response please contact your licensing specialist for additional assistance. If you select a provider that is not pre-approved or you enroll prior to authorization and funding is not approved , you may be responsible for the cost. 19. Can I “home school” a child in foster care? No. While you may choose to home school your own children, children in the state’s custody should attend public or private accredited schools. If you have a situation that you think may require an exception, you may discuss this with your child’s Case Management Team and licensing specialist. They will have to request an exception with the Department of Children and Families for a review for a formal decision prior to implementation. Currently this prohibition is also for virtual schooling as well. 45 TEENS 1. What is the Independent Living Program? The Independent Living Program is actually a series of home and community-based skillbuilding activities for teens in foster care, ages 13 to 18. In addition, continued support to youth ages 18-23 via referrals and federal and state financial assistance if they qualify. The purpose of Independent Living is to teach basic life management skills to teens so they may live with self-awareness, self-reliance, and self-sufficiency upon maturing into adulthood. You, as foster parents, play a critical role as family teachers, helping your foster child fill in the gaps he or she may have experienced along the way. Your role as foster parents, along with the Safe Children Coalition Team, gives you a prime opportunity to be that teacher in the areas of basic life skills training, social skills training, money management, suitable housing/moving, employability/pre-employment skills, education/vocational planning and personal safety. Your teen will also participate in group activities on these types of topics, as coordinated through the Safe Children Coalition Team. We even have curriculum already designed to help you. Ask your team about how to become fully involved as family teachers, and help our kids reach adulthood with a sense of personal achievement. 2. What is the Subsidized Independent Living program? Subsidized Independent Living is another component of the Independent Living Program. A teen candidate for Subsidized Independent Living will have completed the skills-based activities described above, as well as be in school full-time with a 2.0 grade point average, be on target behaviorally, and have a part-time job. The teen will be at least 16 years old and probably older, depending on their maturity and ability to handle some independence. These are the minimal indicators to the SCC Team and the youth candidate that he/she is ready for the rigors of living on his/her own while still being supervised by the SCC Team. There is an application process and the teen candidate appears before a staffing committee to arrange the individualized living situation, having completed all the prerequisites. When the individualized living situation is approved, the teen candidate will receive a monthly stipend from the SCC. The SCC Team will remain in close contact with the teen candidate to ensure that the teen remains on target. Your role as family teachers is to prepare your foster teen for application, again providing that home environment of structure and consistency that will help teach your teen how to prepare for adulthood. 3. What is the role of the Independent Living Specialist? Your teen’s SCC Team serves as the primary navigator through the mechanics of the Independent Living Program. The team will be able to help you with curriculum, family activities, teen group participation and a host of other ideas about how to teach teens. The SCC team facilitates a case review staffing periodically for these teens. The 46 Independent Living Specialist serves as a resource navigator for the youth in regards to available services in the community. 4. Do all children 13 and over have to participate in the Independent Living Program? We would expect that all foster teens, ages 13 through their 18th birthday, will participate actively in life management activities, either structured in a group setting and coordinated through the SCC Team or within the home setting. It is critical that we teach our foster teens how to meet the world; otherwise they run the very real risk of second generation abuse, neglect, or welfare dependence. The delivery of life management skills training is an important topic for you to discuss with your SCC Team, with the result being an individualized plan that meets the needs of the teen. Life Skill trainings range from basic hygiene care to financial budgeting. All individuals involved with the youth are responsible for delivering ‘teachable moments” to that youth’s life. 5. Do children have to leave foster care when they turn eighteen? Children have to leave the legal status of foster care. However, there are a few options available to provide the youth with transitional living arrangements. Some of these options allow these former foster youth to remain in your home as tenants rather than foster children. A payment arrangement can be established with you and the youth with assistance from an SCC IL Program staff member. If you have a child in your home that is 17 and older, please discuss the options available with the assigned case manager and Independent Living Specialist. 6. What services are available to support children as they leave Foster Care? In 2002, the Road to Independence Act became law. This law created three programs that are available to youth leaving the foster care system. Each program has criteria for youth to become eligible for funds. Please coordinate with the assigned case manager to ensure compliance with any prerequisites. Road to Independence Program, is available to young adults aged 18-23. Participants must have earned a standard high school diploma or its equivalent and have been admitted for full-time enrollment in an eligible post-secondary institution. If participants have not yet received a high school diploma, they must be enrolled full-time in an accredited high school, and maintain a 2.0 grade point average. Transitional Support Services, offers short-term services to young adults aged 18-23 who are not eligible for the Road to Independence Scholarship Program. These services include, but are not limited to, financial assistance, housing, counseling, employment, and education. Additional cash assistance during the year may be approved based on the needs of the individual or is available until the young adult is able to apply for the Road to Independence Scholarship. 47 Aftercare Services. Resources and referrals to community based agencies for emergency services to former foster youth, aged 18-23, to prevent homelessness. 7. How are student fees for vocational school or college paid? A student should always apply for financial aid at any college, university, or vocational institute. There are public and private grants that can help a foster teen, and many are actually directed toward at-risk youth and youth in the foster care system. State of Florida Tuition Waivers are available for youth that are eligible. This waiver covers the cost of tuition in Florida, public secondary educational settings. Your teen’s SCC Team can help guide you and the teen in the right direction. You, as family teachers, can play an important role in supporting and encouraging your foster teen to pursue a college degree or vocational program. 8. Can my foster teenager get a driver’s license? Parents of foster teens retain many parental rights and responsibilities, one being to sign for their child to obtain a Florida Driver’s License. Along with that right, is the parental responsibility. Please consult with the case manager to see if the child already has a license at the time of placement. The agency is not able to authorize a minor to get a driver’s license. The Florida Division of Drivers Licenses allows a “responsible adult” to sign authorization for minor who are not in the custody of either parent. The minor’s birth parents are able to sign consent and should be asked first if the child wishes to get a driver’s license. If foster parents are willing to obtain the necessary insurance protection, they may authorize the minor to get a driver’s license. By signing for the minor to get a license, you are assuming responsibility for the minor’s activities as a driver. Your insurance may be impacted when the youth registers your address for their license as a teenage driver in the home. You should consider this carefully and discuss this decision with the child and the child’s SCC Team before taking action. 9. Can a child in foster care get a job? Foster care teens over the age of 15 who are preparing for independent living skills are encouraged to have a part-time job as part of the life management learning experience. Planning with the SCC Team will help you and your teen select a part-time job and working hours which complement your family schedule and do not conflict with the teen’s school schedule. 10. Is there an age at which children in foster care can be home when I am not? Safety for our foster children is always our first concern. This naturally leads to the question of supervision, for which there is no clear cut answer, i.e., when is it OK to leave a child home alone. As a responsible parent to your own children, we know you can understand that the choices you make for supervision depend on the child’s maturity level and not necessarily only on chronological age. 48 Children in foster care are not to be left alone. Any exception must be discussed with your SCC Team. Together, you will develop a Teen Normalcy Plan that is welldocumented and understood by all parties. This plan should include not only what the foster family expects of the youth but what the youth expects of the foster family. This includes house rules and privileges. The emphasis of this document is for our youth to integrate into your home and have the same expectations and privileges that biological children would. If you are unclear or you have continuing questions, continue to discuss the issue with your SCC Team including your licensing specialist until you all reach a good understanding. Remember, your foster child’s safety may depend on it. With regard to youth who may have been recently removed from their home and are in emergency shelter status, even greater thought should be taken as to when to leave a youth unsupervised. This is because their lives have recently been in upheaval and we know less about them and their maturity level. Again, this is a judgment call between the SCC Team and the foster parent. 11. Can children in foster care date? It is very natural for foster teens to want to date; that’s a part of normal growing up. Our responsibility, the SCC Team and you as family teachers, is to help a teen make good judgments about where they are going and who they are with. Help guide your teen with appropriate boundaries and limits, as you would with your own children. And don’t be afraid to say “no” if you believe a situation is not in your teen’s best interest. Remember to always discuss this issue with your SCC Team so that, together with the teen, everyone is informed. Plans, activities including phone contact should be clearly addressed in the Teen plan with expectations for the youth, case manager, the biological parent if available and you as the foster parent. As with the question about supervision, it is important to remember that youth recently removed from their home and in emergency shelter status are at risk. You will want to discuss and consider the dating issue very carefully with the SCC Team before you, as a team, consent. This issue has also been brought up for review by the Teen Advocacy Board with regards to normalcy. 12. What if my teen shows signs of drug or alcohol abuse? Teens who have experienced abuse or neglect are at a higher risk for experimenting with drugs and alcohol as a means of dealing with their feelings about their experience. Be aware of the warning signs of drug and alcohol use. The SCC Team is a good resource to learn more about the signs. Communicate with your teen and his/her SCC Team. Ask for help. Counseling and/or treatment may be needed. Please ensure that your licensing specialist is notified of this matter for additional assistance, resources or system navigation. 49 13. My child is sexually active; can she be put on birth control? You cannot make the choice for the child alone. Birth control is a subject which is best discussed openly with all children and youth, especially those in foster care since they may be especially needy and may choose to be sexually active as a way of meeting that need. As a team, your SCC Team, birth parents and you (as a family teacher and foster parent), all play an important role in giving your foster teen access to concrete information and helping to lead him/her toward making safe and healthy choices. Your foster teen’s physician may prescribe birth control pills and the child’s birth parents should be involved in these discussions including providing written permission for the medication (if rights have not been terminated) which should be incorporated in the court record and dependency file. Neither a foster parent nor SCC case manager should authorize this without the parent’s consent. The physician, as well as the SCC Team will be able to help you acquire accurate and current information to give your foster teen about safe sex practices and sexually transmitted disease. The Health Department is also a source of information, services, and prescriptions. Again, your role as family teacher is to support your foster teen and stay in close contact with the SCC Team to ensure information is being shared so appropriate services can be accessed. This issue is covered in the Independent Living Training. 14. My foster child is pregnant. What now? Your SCC Team becomes your primary and extremely important contact. The SCC Team will assist your foster care teen in accessing medical services. It is also important the birth parents be informed and involved (to the degree possible) because the parents still have a parental right and responsibility for the child. Your responsibility lies in letting the SCC Team know information as soon as you have it and to allow the SCC Team to maintain contact with the birth parent and medical community. Any choice to maintain or terminate the pregnancy lies solely with the biological parent (if rights are not terminated), the foster teen and her physician. Your role as family teacher and foster parent, is to be supportive and accepting and allow the decision to take place. With either decision, there will be an opportunity for a lifelong learning experience for the foster teen. It is important for you to know that if the foster teen chooses to terminate the pregnancy, parental consent must be obtained and included in the court file and youth’s dependency file. The youth can be advised that they may request a hearing before the court for an order of the court as this is considered an evasive medical procedure that neither a foster parent nor SCC case manager can authorize. 50 15. What happens when my teenager has a baby? As with any discussion of whether to maintain or terminate a pregnancy, your role as family teacher and foster parent is to be supportive and consistent for your foster teen. Remember that a teen having a baby is another life changing event and will be a lifelong learning experience, either positive or negative. You can play a critical part in helping the experience be a positive one for the young woman or young man. If the young mother chooses to keep her baby, every effort will be made to keep mom and baby together as long as it is medically appropriate and there are no overriding safety concerns. This decision is made on the basis of the mom’s ability to care for the child, her maturity, and the medical needs of the child. It is probable that you would receive an additional payment for the baby as part of the board rate, and you should feel free to discuss this with your SCC Team as the pregnancy progresses so you can be financially prepared. Your role, with the mom and new baby, is to help the mom bond with the child and provide learning experiences so the mom can learn how to be a good mom. In addition to your family teaching, the SCC Team can help by linking you with the community resources that can assist with skill building and nurturing. It is also important that you become a primary observer to let the SCC Team know what kind of help the mom needs and to help ensure the safety of the newborn. 16. What about school and my expectant or new teenage mother? Encourage the youngster to continue school. The public school system has special programs for expectant foster teens and their babies. This teen should also be referred to the Independent Living Program to work towards self-sufficiency. 17. What can (should) I do if my teen shows a sexual interest in the same sex? Your consistency and unconditional positive regard will help your foster teen work through this. It is important to maintain open communication with the SCC Team to ensure that appropriate information and services are available to your foster teen. The SCC Team can help link your foster teen with those services, and you can access them yourself in order to help your foster teen as they grow toward adulthood. This topic is covered in Independent Living training. 51 Normalcy 1. What is “Normalcy”? Normalcy refers to a renewed philosophy or initiative within the foster care system with the express goal of allowing children in care to experience the “normal” childhood activities and opportunities that those in the community enjoy on a daily basis. It is normal for children to want to spend the night at a friend’s home, to date, to attend school trips and other extracurricular activities, to learn to drive, and many other activities that in the past, had been denied to foster children in an attempt to keep them safe. As a child’s foster parent or caregiver, you are entrusted with deciding what activities are appropriate for each child in your home, just as you would for any biological or adopted children. Decision making should be shared with the child’s case management team and biological family whenever possible and should be made based on each child’s individual history, needs, maturity, and developmental level. What may be perfectly appropriate and safe for one child may not be so for another due to their individual situation. Like you would for your own children, foster parents should know where their foster children are at all times and you should make an effort to know who their friends are and meet those friends’ parents. Normalcy applies to children of all ages, but is particularly relevant for teen aged children in care. Each teen should have their own individual written “Normalcy Plan”. This plan should be developed with input from the child, foster parent or caregiver, case management team, IL specialist, and biological family members and should be updated regularly as the child ages and matures. If you need a copy of your child’s Normalcy Plan or are unsure whether one is in place, please contact your child’s case management team. For further information or clarification regarding specific normalcy situations and what activities are appropriate, please contact your case manager or the SCC Normalcy Advisor (Rebecca Lovegrove, rlovegrove@thesarasotay.org). General information regarding Normalcy practices can be found on the SCC website (www.safechildrencoalition.org) or at the Center for Child Welfare (http://centerforchildwelfare.fmhi.usf.edu/) 52 LEGAL ISSUES 1. What is my liability as a foster parent? The Risk Management Trust Fund provides general liability coverage for allegations of negligence made against foster parents while acting within the scope of their responsibilities pursuant to s.409.175(14)(a), Florida Statues. Abuse and/or any action committed “willfully and wantonly” and/or outside the course and scope of their responsibilities would not be covered. 2. Can I purchase additional liability coverage? A prepaid legal insurance policy is available for a reasonably priced yearly premium through the Florida State Foster & Adoptive Parent Association. Contact the president of your local association for further information. 3. What are my rights as a foster parent? Please refer to the Rights & Responsibilities section of this handbook. 4. How does the Dependency System work and how am I involved during the legal process? The following is the time line for the dependency legal process: ACTION TIME FRAME (WITHIN OR BY) Abuse investigation results in removal: Detention/ Shelter Hearing within 24 hours. Child should attend if age appropriate; foster parent may attend. 24 hours Dependency Petition filed within 21 days of shelter hearing 22 days Arraignment held within 28 days of shelter hearing 29 days Case Plan conference within 30 days. 30 days Adjudicatory Hearing within 30 days of Arraignment. 59 days Case Plan (including tasks for foster parent) to be filed with the court within 60 days of shelter. 60 days Dispositional Hearing. 30 days from Adjudicatory hearing. 89 days Initial Judicial Review within five months of removal. 5 months 53 Permanency Staffing to determine progress of case and appropriateness of goal (foster parents are invited). 8 months Second Judicial Review to occur five months from Initial Judicial Review. 10 months Permanency Hearing 12 months Foster parents are encouraged to attend Permanency Staffings, Judicial Review Hearings and Administrative Reviews. You should receive a copy of the Judicial Review Social Study and a Notice of Hearing or Administrative Review. The SCC Team will advise you if the child should be present at the Review Hearings, staffings, etc.. 5. What is a Case Plan? Previously called Performance Agreements or Permanent Placement Plans, these are the documents that are filed with the court that outline the problems which led to the child being placed in care and identify the tasks that must be completed in order for the child to be returned safely to the parent(s)’ custody or to achieve the goal for the child. The Case Plan is a document negotiated between the child’s Case Management Team, therapist, GAL (if one has been appointed by the court), and parent(s) or prepared by the SCC Team when the parent will not or cannot participate in the preparation of the Case Plan. Parents must “substantially comply” with the terms of their Case Plan in order for their child(ren) to be returned to their custody. 6. How does the agency decide if a child can be placed with relatives? Beginning at the time of the abuse investigation, and continuing throughout the time the child is in foster care, the team will attempt to locate a child’s relatives. Per Chapter 39 Florida Statues the department is to make all diligent efforts to place a child in the least restrictive placement. The department is charged to continue to pursue this level of care throughout the duration of the dependency case. If relatives are located who are willing to be considered for placement, a home study, including a background check, is done. If the relatives are in another state, this is accomplished through an agreement called the Interstate Compact for the Placement of Children (ICPC). This agreement provides guidelines for placing children across state lines. The home study will include a recommendation from the other state (or county within the State of Florida). As discussed in MAPP maintaining familial and sibling ties are the primary placement of choice. 54 7. What happens if the parent does substantially comply ( follow through) with the tasks of services Case Plan? Throughout the course of the plan, the child’s Case Management Team will maintain contact with the parent, child, foster parent, and service providers to monitor the progress of all parties and compliance with the plan. As the problems are resolved and it appears that the child may be able to return home, plans are formulated to make a smooth transition. Contact and visitation with birth family may increase. A case staffing will be held for input, planning and recommendations regarding the quality of the visitation and contact including making recommendations to increase contact and frequency/level based on the input of case managers, foster parents, GALs, Therapists and others. Foster parents’ written input, telephonic or personal appearance is requested for this staffing. A court hearing is held to request a modification of visitation if it has determined that the child can now be safe in the parent’s presence. Foster parents are invited to the hearings. As the parent’s compliance increases and risk is reduced due to the benefit of service engagement another case staffing may be held for input, planning and recommendations for decision making to return the children to the custody of the parents. Parents, case managers, foster parents, GALs, Therapists and others also provide input. Foster parents’ written input, telephonic or personal appearance is requested for this staffing If the child is returned to his/her birth family, the agency provides after-care supervision for a minimum of six (6) months 8. What happens if the parent does not substantially comply with the Case Plan? Throughout the course of the plan, the child’s Case Management Team will maintain contact with the parent, child, foster parent, and service providers to monitor the progress of all parties and compliance with the plan. If the parents fail to show significant change in behaviors and actions which led to their involvement in the child welfare system a case staffing will be held for input, planning and recommendations regarding an appropriate permanency solution can be sought for the child.. Input of case managers, foster parents, GALs, Therapists and others will be shared and a determination to proceed with an approved plan will be recommended to the court. For youth in the custody of the state( licensed foster care) permanency options may include: a- adoption b- permanent guardianship of a dependent child c- placement in another planned permanent living arrangement Foster parents’ written input, telephonic or personal appearance is requested for this staffing. 55 9. When will Termination of Parental Rights be considered? Termination of Parental rights and subsequent planning will be considered when one of the following conditions exists: a. Surrender [Fla. Stat. § 39.806(1)(a)]: The parent voluntarily signed a written surrender of the child and consented to the entry of an order giving custody of the child to the Department for the purpose of adoption on ______________. The surrender was executed before two witnesses and a notary public or executed before the court after having been sworn and questioned. The surrender document is attached hereto and incorporated as though fully set forth herein or filed with the Court on ____________. Fla. Stat. § 39.806(1)(a)]. b. Abandonment [Fla. Stat. § 39.806(1)(b)]: The parent abandoned the child as defined by Fla. Stat. §39.01(1) and/or the identity and/or location of the parent are unknown and cannot be ascertained by a diligent search conducted within 60 days. An affidavit of diligent search was completed on ___________ and filed with the Court. The location of the parent could not be found. The parent’s whereabouts have been unknown for ___________ months. The parent, while being able, has made no provision for the child’s support and has failed to establish or maintain a substantial and positive relationship with the child. [Fla. Sta. § 39.01 (1)] in that [insert specifics – has not visited or communicated with the child since ______ . There is no real parental relationship between the child and the parent due to his/her lack of involvement in the child’s life.] c. Continued Involvement [Fla. Stat. § 39.806(1)(c)]: The parent has engaged in conduct towards the child that demonstrates that his/her continued involvement in the parent child relationship threatens the life, safety, well-being, or physical, mental or emotional health of the child, irrespective of the provisions of services. Services were provided through the case plan. The parent was found in material breach of their case plan by the Court at the Judicial Review hearings on ___________________. The parent’s conduct (add specifics as to affect on continued relationship ie lack of stability, ongoing criminal conduct, detrimental conduct etc)) d. Incarcerated Parent [Fla. Stat. § 39.806(1)(d)]: The parent is incarcerated in a state or federal correctional institution on charges of ________________________________with an anticipated release date of __________________. Said time frame constitutes a substantial period of time prior to the child turning 18 years old. [Fla. Stat. § 39.806 (1)(d)(1)]. The child is currently ________ years old. The parent’s incarceration for _________ years constitutes majority of the child’s minority. OR 56 The incarcerated parent has been determined by the court to be a violent care criminal, a habitual violent felony offender, or a sexual predator, has been convicted a first degree or second degree murder, or a sexual battery that constitutes a capital, life, or first degree felony violation. [Fla. Stat. § 39.806(1)(d)(2)] OR Continuing the parental relationship with the incarcerated parent would be harmful to the child and termination of the parental rights of the incarcerated parent is in the best interests of the child. [Fla. Stat. § 39.806(1)(d)(3)]. (insert specifics) e. Failed Case Plan [Fla. Stat. § 39.806(1)(e)]: The child has been adjudicated dependant and a case plan has been filed with and ordered by the court. The parent failed to substantially comply with the case plan for a period of nine (9) months after an adjudication of the child as a dependant child or the child’s placement into shelter care, which constitutes evidence of continuing abuse, neglect or abandonment. The department made reasonable efforts to reunify the parent and child. Fla. Stat. § 39.806(1)(e)(1). The Court found the parent in non-compliance/ material breach of the case Plan on _______________. In particular, they failed to _________________________________. The failure to reach compliance is not based on any financial hardship. The parent’s failure to comply with the Case Plan was not due to the parent’s lack of financial resources or the failure of the Department to make reasonable efforts to reunify the parent and child. The parent’s effort to comply with the case plan was marginal at best. The circumstances causing the removal from the parent has not been sufficiently remedied. f. Egregious Conduct [Fla. Stat. § 39.806(1)(f)]: The parent engaged in egregious conduct or had the opportunity and capability to prevent and knowingly failed to prevent egregious conduct that threatens the life, safety, or physical, mental or emotional health of the child or the child’s sibling. The deplorable, flagrant, or outrageous conduct included the following: (insert specifics). g. Abuse [Fla. Stat. § 39.806(1)(g)]: The parent has subjected the child or another child to aggravated child abuse, sexual battery, or sexual abuse, or chronic abuse. The parent was found guilty of __________________________. The parent is serving/ served _________ years incarcerated for the aggravated child abuse/sexual battery/ sexual abuse or chronic abuse. In this case the parent’s actions meet the definition for (add specific facts and site from 39.01(67)). h. Murder/battery on a child [Fla. Stat. § 39.806(1)(h)]: The parent has committed the murder, manslaughter, aiding or abetting the murder, or conspiracy or solicitation to murder the other parent or another child, or a felony battery that resulted in serious bodily injury to the child or to another child. The parent was found guilty of the charge of ____________________________ and is serving _____ years as a result. 57 i. Prior termination of rights to a sibling [Fla. Stat. § 39.806 (1)(i)]: The parental rights of the parent to a sibling of the child have been terminated involuntarily on ___________________in the case In the interest of _____________________, Case Number, ________________ County. A true and correct copy of the Final Judgment Terminating Parental Rights is attached hereto and incorporated as though fully set forth herein. The parent’s situation has not substantially changed since their rights were terminated. The parent is still (insert specifics – abusing drugs, exposing the child to harmful environment, lacks stability and parenting skills). The parent never completed the tasks in their case plan since that time and has not substantially improved their situation such that this child could remain safe if placed with them. j. Chronic Substance Abuse [Fla. Stat. § 39.806(1)(j)]: The parent has a history of extensive, abusive, and chronic use of alcohol or a controlled substance which renders him/her incapable of caring for the child, and has refused or failed to complete available treatment for such use during the 3-year period immediately preceding the filing of this petition for termination of parental rights. The parent has an extensive history of substance abuse problems beginning in _______________ (add specifics- drug charges, prior DCF involvement, prior case plans with services VIPER, First Step, etc, prior services in the community) The history of substance abuse and current addiction has made the parent incapable of caring for the child which places the child at great risk due to the following: (add specifics) k. Second Child Born Substance Exposed [Fla. Stat. § 39.806 (1)(k)]: The abovenamed child was born substance exposed as evidenced by a test administered at birth that indicated the child’s blood, urine, or meconium contained alcohol or a controlled substance or metabolites of such substances, which are not the result of medical treatment. The biological mother is the biological mother of at least one other child who was adjudicated dependent after a finding of harm to the child’s health or welfare due to exposure to a controlled substance or alcohol. On ___________, the mother gave birth to ________________ DOB ______________ who was positive for ______________ at birth. This child was removed from the mother’s care and adjudicated dependent on ___________Case Number _______________. The Court found that the child tested positive for alcohol or a controlled substance and the child’s health and welfare were harmed by the mother’s use of a controlled substance and/or the mother’s extensive, abusive and chronic use of controlled substance/alcohol demonstrably adversely affected the child. The mother failed to comply with the case plan that was ordered by the court. The mother had the opportunity to participate in and successfully complete substance abuse treatment and failed to do so and continues to abuse drugs and expose her children to drugs. This child was born positive for _______________ at birth. The baby exhibited withdrawal signs and symptoms and was diagnosed with neonatal abstinence syndrome. The child was kept in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) for_________ days/weeks and had to be gradually weaned off 58 morphine/Phenobarbital as a result of in-utero substance exposure. The mother’s use of the substance was not as a result of medical treatment. l. Three or more Removals [Fla. Stat. § 39.806(1)(l)]: On three or more occasions this child or another child of the parent has been placed in out-of-home care pursuant to Chapter 39 of Florida Statutes, and the conditions that led to the child’s out-of-home placement were caused by the parent. In particular, The child ___________, was removed on _______________ due to ____________________ (One Removal). The child _____________________, was removed on ______________________, due to _______________________(Second Removal). The child ___________ was removed on ___________________ due to ______________________(Third removal). These conditions were caused by the parents. 10. What happens if the child in my home does not return to his/her birth family and becomes free for adoption? The Adoption Specialist will work with your child’s current Case Manager to develop and implement the adoption plan. A staffing will be held where you and other important people in the child’s life will be invited to contribute. The team will come together to address what is best for the child. Many children in the foster care system qualify as special needs children if they adopted. 11. Are there conditions under which I would not be allowed to adopt a child who is living in my home? For foster children who become free for adoption, the strengths of the foster home and the needs of the child will be assessed by the adoptions team. In the majority of cases, the current placement of the child will be considered as the initial placement of choice is with the foster parents with whom they are living, except in the following situations: a. The child has siblings and there is a determination that efforts to reunite the sibling group has not been fully explored. b. The foster child does not want to be adopted by the foster parents. c. The foster parents do not want to adopt the child. d. The foster parents want to adopt the child, but not his/her siblings who are also available for adoption, and it is in the best interest of the sibling group to be placed together. e. Special circumstances warrant that the appropriate placement is elsewhere. 12. Who decides if I can adopt a foster child who lives with me? Decisions regarding adoptions are made by the agency that has been providing case management and therapeutic services to your child. You shall be provided an opportunity to express your interest in adoption at the permanency staffing/hearing. The Case Management Team working with you and the child will share your interest in adoption with the adoption staff. Decision making as to whether adoption by the foster parents is in the best interest of the child or the foster parents shall be a multidisciplinary process where the current Case Management Team and adoptions team will work closely together to resolve these questions or issues. You will be made fully aware and 59 be given the opportunity to discuss options and plans with all staff involved during the child’s permanency staffing. 13. What if a child, whose parents’ rights have been terminated, does not want to be adopted? The child’s age, history, emotional and mental health will be taken into consideration in planning for permanency. As part of your advocacy role you may be asked to assist obtain information from the child as to their decision, educate the child regarding long term implications of their decision making and possibly participate in adoption education or clinical interventions with the child. All parties should have an active role in discussing the options with the child. 14. How can I help prepare a child for adoption? Children who have an ability to attach emotionally to one family can be helped to become attached to another. Be a safe, stable, trustworthy anchor to your child during his/her stay with you. If the child has special needs or behavior problems, give them the help they need to achieve their potential. Be honest with the child. If you do not plan to adopt, help the child remain informed about the plans for his/her future. Keep a Life Book so the child will have a record of his/her life. When an adoptive family is found, help the child to make the transition. If possible, meet the family and help the child to see that you think it is a good thing for them to have a family of their own. A planned, orderly move through foster care is possible with good teamwork. Enlist the help of the child’s Case Manager and/or therapist if needed. 15. What is a Guardian Ad Litem? Many children in the Department of Children and Families custody are represented before the court by a Guardian Ad Litem. A Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) is a courtappointed, specially-trained volunteer who serves as an officer of the court to ensure that the best interest and wishes of the child are represented at legal proceedings. A GAL monitors services provided, visits with the child in their foster home and other places, and makes recommendations to the court. The GAL has been granted the authority to interview the child they represent and to be involved in making major decisions which affect the child. These discussions may occur in your home, at the child’s schools or other settings. Ask your child’s Case Manager if a GAL has been appointed to the case, and how to contact them. The assigned GAL should provide you their contact information as well as that of their GAL Case Coordinator supervisor upon your request. 60 FINANCIAL ISSUES 1. When can I expect to be reimbursed for the care of a foster or shelter child in my home? You should receive a check for the care you provided your child by the fifteenth of the month for the proceeding month. Example: Child is placed 03/06/08, you would receive a check by 04/15/08. 2. Where do the checks I receive for foster or shelter children placed in my home come from? The YMCA (lead agency administrator/fiscal agent for SCC) keeps track of all foster care placements and payment comes from that agency. The funds come from the state contract for foster care services. 3. Who do I call if my check is wrong or if I have a question about my check? Foster Parents in DeSoto, Manatee and Sarasota Counties, call 941-371-4799 x 132 4. How and to whom do I submit my mileage? Foster Parents in DeSoto, Manatee and Sarasota Counties submit mileage forms, by the last day of the month, to the Licensing Specialist. You should record your child(ren) full name, beginning and ending mileage readings, destination and purpose. Ask for a blank form to use if you need to submit mileage. (Make copies or ask for a supply from your child’s SCC Team). 5. When can I claim mileage for taking my child to appointments? You may receive reimbursement for taking a child to medical and therapeutic appointments, school conferences, and parent visits. Mileage is not reimbursed for transporting a child to school or daycare unless prior authorization has been granted to do so. Ask your licensing specialist for a copy of Mileage Reimbursement Form. Per CBC Policy #600.004, Foster Parent Mileage Reimbursement will not be paid if it exceeds 60 days. 6. What about clothes and diapers? Often, children come into foster care with limited amounts of appropriate clothing. At the initial placement when a child has been sheltered from a parent, foster parents are entitled to a Shelter Allowance for clothing reimbursement. Depending on the child’s age, 61 the foster parents can be reimbursed up to the following amounts if they turn the receipts into the Foster Parent Advocate by the last day of the month. 0-5yo’s $60 6-12yo’s $100 13-17yo’s $150 Furthermore, foster children are eligible for an annual clothing allowance every July. 0-4 y/o receive $200. 5-17 y/o receive $300. A diaper allowance is paid for children up to age three. The amount is prorated by the number of days the child is in the home if they are not there a full month. 7. What happens if I receive money I am not entitled to? Contact 941-371-4799 x 132 to receive directions on how to return the check. If the check is the wrong amount, a new check with the correct amount will be issued. If you discover the check is the wrong amount after you cash it, call and set up a repayment schedule. The SCC is willing to work out a flexible repayment plan so it causes no hardship on your family. Repayment is important so that the money is available to pay for the child in his/her current placement. 8. Do I have to pay taxes on the money I receive for children in foster care? If you receive qualified foster care payments during the year caring for a qualified foster child, you do not have to include the payments in your income. However, if you receive such payments, you may not claim the child as a dependent. The payments you receive are to reimburse you for the expenses incurred on behalf of the agency who is responsible for the foster child. If you find that expenses you incur to care for foster children are more than payments you receive, you may take a charitable contribution for the excess expenses on Schedule A (Form 1040) if you itemize deductions. To claim a charitable contribution, you should keep adequate records of the income and expenses for your foster care placements. If the foster parent is enrolled as a Medicaid Provider and provides special services to a medically complex child or an HIV positive child, the payment received from Medicaid over and above the board payment is considered taxable income. 9. Are there funds available to foster parents for home improvements including extensions on homes to accommodate additional children? There are no funds specifically allocated for this purpose. It would be the responsibility of the foster parent if they chose to make any improvements on their home. 10. What if a child causes deliberate damage to a person or to property while in my care? Report the incident at once to the child’s Case Management Team. If appropriate, the Team will give you a Claim for Restitution Form (402 claim) that can be submitted for 62 consideration of payment to the Department of Children and Families Office of Attorney General Fund. In order to access the Fund, you will first need to submit your claim to your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. The fund will not pay for losses covered by personal insurance. It will, however, pay the insurance deductible. Be sure to submit the following with your claim: a. Written estimates or receipts for repair or replacement costs; b. All related medical bills, and receipts for related costs; c. A physician’s statement of diagnosis, if applicable; d. Any official reports documenting the incident; e. Names, addresses and phone numbers of all witnesses and people involved with the incident. Claims are generally limited to $1,000.00 for damages; claims over $1,000.00 are not reimbursed by insurance or the fund. Please be advised that cash and other non traceable information that are stolen may not be approved by the fund. We ask that special care and diligence in securing these items are put in effect. If a child damages your home, the Safe Children Coalition should be contacted immediately and an incident report completed. If funding is available YMCA management may assess full or partial repayment of items. If you receive a notice that the DCF Office of Attorney General fund has approved your claim and it has been submitted to Safe Children Coalition for payment due to no additional funds in the state account please contact your licensing specialist and SCC Director of Client and Community Relations at 941 371-4799 ex 110 with a copy of the documentation for the Safe Children Coalition fiscal department to process. 63 FOSTER & ADOPTIVE PARENT ASSOCIATION 1. What is a Foster & Adoptive Parent Association, Inc.? A Foster & Adoptive Parent Association is a not-for-profit organization open to all foster parents and adoptive parents (as supporting members). It is a support system that encourages comradeship between members. The membership dues vary from county to county and are established by each association. The Foster & Adoptive Parent Association: a. Provides mutual support and shared experience in problem-solving. b. Works collectively to improve conditions and develop resources for children in foster care. c. Develops better communication between foster parents and the SCC agencies. d. Educates the public and the media about the needs of children in foster care. e. Provides in-service training for members. f. Advocates for foster parents and children. The Florida State Foster & Adoptive Parent Association Inc. can be joined by local associations or individual members. The State Association has training opportunities and various committees which can lobby for changes and improvements. Contact your local association for information on joining the State Association. To identify when and where your local association http://www.floridafapa.org/ or call 1-866-913-0977. meets, please visit 2. Does the Foster & Adoptive Parent Association have any activities or services for the children in foster care? Each chapter of the Foster & Adoptive Parent Association is independent of the other. In order to find out what services or activities the Foster & Adoptive Parent Association in your area provides, contact your association officers or attend one of the monthly meetings. 3. Do I have to have foster children in my home in order to join the Foster & Adoptive Parent Association? No. The Foster & Adoptive Parent Association is not limited to families with shelter or foster children. Adoptive families and families including those who have not yet had children placed in their are welcome to join. 3. When and Where do the Associations meet? DeSoto: 3rd Tuesday, 11:30am -1:00pm Safe Children Coalition 925 N. Mills Ave., Arcadia Association President: Cindy Konold Asissy5291120@embarqmail.com 64 Manatee: 1st Thursday, 6pm West Bradenton Baptist Church 1305 43rd Street W., Bradenton Association President: Danny Jones Jones.dannyw@gmail.com North Port: 2nd Tuesday, 7:00pm YMCA 3010 South Sumter Blvd., North Port Association President: Veronica Mitchell vmitchell@scgov.net Sarasota: 3rd Monday, 7:00pm Vamo Methodist Church 8521 Vamo Road, Sarasota Association President: Gena Davis geanna@msn.com 65 WOMEN, INFANTS AND CHILDREN (PROGRAM) 1. What is WIC? WIC is a special food program for women, infants and children. WIC is administered by the Department of Children and Families through the county public health units or contact agencies. 2. Who is eligible for the WIC program? Anyone who meets the income guidelines and has Infants and children under five (5) years of age. Young women who are pregnant or breast-feeding are also eligible for WIC. 3. What do I need to bring to the WIC office when registering a child placed in my home? Call the WIC office nearest you for clarification as each office may have different expectations: DeSoto County: 863-993-4605 Manatee County: 941-748-0747 x1292 or x1368 Sarasota County: 941-861-2929 4. Do I need to make an appointment to register my child for WIC? Yes. You will need to call the WIC office nearest to your home and make an appointment with the nutritionist. Each WIC office has different days of operation. 5. What stores accept WIC checks? Most major food stores accept WIC checks. You will be given information on who accepts WIC once your child is enrolled. Be sure to bring your WIC identification card with you when cashing your WIC checks. 6. What foods can I buy with the WIC checks? The back of the WIC check has the complete list of WIC approved foods. The front of your WIC check tells you the types of food and amount you can buy with your WIC check. 7. What happens if I lose the WIC checks? Notify your WIC office at once. Unfortunately, WIC checks cannot be replaced. 8. What is recertification? Recertification is the WIC office’s way to monitor the nutritional progress of your child. Recertification is required at age one (1) year and then every six (6) months thereafter. The WIC office will notify you one month prior to your recertification date that you need to be recertified. Recertification requires a child’s height, weight and hemoglobin to be checked. You can have this done at the health agency where you pick up your WIC 66 checks or, if you take your child to a private doctor or other health care facility, the WIC office will give you a referral form for your doctor to fill out with the necessary information. 9. What if my foster child was already enrolled in the WIC program by his/her family? When you call the WIC office to set up your initial appointment, they will be able to tell you if the child has previously been enrolled in WIC. If the child’s family has picked up the WIC checks prior to him/her being placed in your home, you will not be able to get new WIC checks for him/her until the next issuance of vouchers. 10. Am I the only one who can pick up WIC checks? When you sign up for WIC, you are asked to assign another person, in addition to yourself, to pick up your WIC checks. It is best to use another member of your family. Only persons over the age of eighteen (18) are eligible. 67
