Acronyms
FCM
Family Case Manager
CC is a continuation of older youth services for young adults (from age 18 until they turn 21) who voluntarily agree to remain or re-enter foster care. CC helps young adults reach their transition plan goals to successfully emerge into adulthood
What is the minimum age to be a FP in Indiana?
18
How often do periodic case review hearing take place?
In Indiana, periodic case review hearings for children in foster care typically occur at least every six months. (IC 31-34-21)
What are foster childrens rights?
the right to be safe, to education, communication with family and a say in their own care planning.
Termination of Parental Rights
20 months (ideally 12)
How many hours of in service training do traditional FP homes have to complete a year?
15 hours overall for a traditionally licensed home, (Therapeutic homes require 20 hours a year)
How old does a child have to be to participate in a court hearing?
There is no age limit, a child can participate at any age deemed appropriate by their carers.(Indiana code IC 31-32, addresses the rights of children in legal proceedings.)
What must a FP do if they suspect abuse or neglect?
Call the hotline right away and speak to FCM afterwards as well.
CFTM
Child Family Team Meeting
What percentage of children become reunified?
55%
Can foster children share a room? if so, when?
In Indiana, foster care regulations typically allow for foster children to share a room under certain conditions. Generally, children of the same gender and similar age may share a room, but there are guidelines regarding space and safety. (Rule 465 IAC 2-1.5)
What does CHINS stand for
Child In Need of Services.
Who can you share information with regarding your foster children?
Only anyone involved within their CFTM teams (FCM, GAL, CASA, etc.)
CANS
Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths Assessment
How many children are in foster care in Indiana?
14,000
Do relatives have to be licensed to be caregivers?
In Indiana, relatives can serve as caregivers for children in foster care, but they generally must be licensed as foster parents to receive state funding and support. However, there are provisions for "relative placements" that may allow relatives to care for children without a full license, depending on the situation and the needs of the child. (465 IAC 2-1.5)
Which court system is DCS involved with (Criminal, Civil, family, juvenile?)
The Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS) is primarily involved with the juvenile court system. (IC 31-30 and IC 31-34 )
What is the purpose of a visitation plan?
to map out times, location and condition for bio family visits.
GAL
Guardian Ad Litem
What percentage of children in care are older youth?
35% (13 and older)
How many children under 18 years old can a foster parent have in their at the same time?
Generally, a foster home can care for up to six children total, including both foster children and any biological or adoptive children in the home, HOWEVER, this all depends on circumstances and the ability to care for all children (465 IAC 2-1.5)
When should a permanency hearing take place?
In Indiana, a permanency hearing for a child in foster care should generally take place within 12 months from the date the child was removed from their home (IC 31-34-21)
Why is teamwork so important as a foster parent? Who should you be working with?
Working with teachers, bio family, dcs, fcms, etc can only help with the childs overall wellbeing.