Resources include core/foundation training curricula and materials for child welfare caseworkers on family-centered practice that address topics such as involving families in case planning and case management, connecting parents to extended family members and community supports, forming helping relationships with families, and more. Resources include State and local examples.
Application of Theory to Family-Centered Care: A Role for Social Workers
Miller (2012)
Social Work in Health Care, 51(2)
View Abstract
Discusses the principles of family-centered care. The article provides a definition and explains a theoretical framework, Balance Theory of Coordination, which can be utilized by social workers to develop and enhance family-centered care practices.
Casework: What it Really Takes
Child Welfare Information Gateway (2018)
Offers guidance and examples from former caseworkers on how to manage time, energy, and emotion for new or future caseworkers, along with tips on how to perform the work
| Author(s) | Office on Child Abuse and Neglect, Children's Bureau. |
| Availability | View Download (PDF - 2,676KB) |
| Year Published | 2018 |
Expanding the Family Circle
University at Albany, School of Social Welfare (2009)
Teaches a framework for the experienced caseworker to integrate a culturally competent, family-centered approach to casework practice. The training offers skills and strategies for working with all members of a family system and includes a curriculum, activities, trainer's manual, and participant workbook.
Guide to Clinical Supervision (PDF - 236 KB)
L3 P Associates (2010)
Provides a tool and structure for supervisors to assess and support family-centered practice in their staff in three critical areas: family engagement, critical thinking, and intentional visiting practices.
State and local examples
Child Welfare Pre-Service Training: Family Preservation and Family-Centered Practice: Participant Guide (PDF - 392 KB)
Florida Department of Children and Families & Child Welfare Training Consortium, University of South Florida (2012)
Identifies the philosophy and values of family preservation services and addresses family engagement, assessment, case planning, teaming, and more.
Family Centered Case Practice for Frontline Case Managers Training: Participant Guide (PDF - 1,127 KB)
Georgia Division of Family and Children Services (2010)
Provides a training agenda for family-centered practice, including training goals and objectives, to assist Georgia frontline case managers in implementing family-centered principles in child welfare practice.
Using Interactional Helping Skills to Achieve Lasting Change
Pennsylvania Child Welfare Training Program (2010)
Provides a curriculum for a 6-hour workshop on the four phases of the Interactional Helping Skills Model to engage and work with families to accomplish the mission of child welfare.