What training is required for licensure as a treatment foster parent for CFS?

The following trainings are required for licensure as a treatment foster parent for CFS:
• Attendance at an Information Meeting
• Pre-Service training (30 hours in seven sessions usually completed over three weeks)
• Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
• Therapeutic Hold

Do both parents have to attend training?

Yes, if there are two caregivers in the household, they must both attend Pre-Service training and complete on-going training after licensure.

Do I have to do more training after I'm licensed?

Yes. The state requires that all foster parents complete continuing education in order to continue to develop their skills and understanding in work with foster children.

What training do I have to complete to maintain my license?

Every year all foster parents are required to complete the following:
• CPR
• Therapeutic Hold
• Continuing Education

How Many Hours of Continuing Education are required to maintain my license?

At the time of licensure, two parent families will determine which adult will serve the primary parenting role for the foster child. This person is designated as the Primary Parent. The other adult is then designated the Secondary Parent. For training purposes, the Primary Parent must complete 30 hours of training annually after licensure while the Secondary Parent must complete 24 hours of annual training. Parents should complete 2-3 hours of training each month.

How often does CFS provide training for foster parents?

CFS offers free Inservice training monthly for foster parents at both of its locations.

Do I have to complete my continuing education training with CFS?

No. You can complete hours through work, at community locations, or in self-instruction as long as proof of participation is available and the topic is relative to parenting or foster care. Half of foster parent training hours can be completed in this manner.

What is the difference between "Inside" and "Outside" training hours?

Of the continuing education hours required, half must be completed "In House" while the other half may be completed In House or "Outside".

In House hours will only include trainings or meetings that are completed
• In a group
• With a facilitator
• At CFS or with the Maryland Foster Parent Training Center
• Parents can request that training completed in a group but in the community or one-on-one training done in the home or agency with their case manager or therapist be considered for In-House Hours by submitting a request to their social worker who will then follow-up with the Resource Unit Manager.

Outside hours will include:
• Family Ties Self Tests.
• Self Instruction, like reading a book or watching a video.
• Training received in the community, like in the workplace or at a conference.