The Department of Child Welfare (DCF) has various training options available. Some training is in person, while others are online. Regardless of your preference, you’ll likely need to complete the training. There are many benefits to completing training through the DCF. These training options include the following:
Online
The Department of Children and Families (DCF) offers two-hour online training for mandated reporters and the general public. These classes provide basic information about reporting child abuse and neglect and explain your responsibility under state law. You will also learn how to create a DCF report and what to do if you suspect child abuse or neglect.
In-person
DCF provides mandated reporter training for school employees and community providers online. Further information is available from the DCF Academy for Workforce Development. This training addresses topics ranging from the latest data on the impact of COVID-19 on education to effective strategies to foster discussion. Participants will learn how to work with school administrators to address challenges productively.
DCF also offers trauma-specific training to prepare caregivers for this unique environment. DCF has specifically designated these modules as ‘Crisis/Trauma-specific training’. These are designed to provide caregivers with the knowledge and skills to care for children in DCF care effectively.
In-service
DCF offers several in-service training courses to help DCF workers achieve their professional goals. DCF’s supervisor training program, for example, focuses on leadership, motivation, communication, performance evaluation, and planning. The course also addresses issues related to problem-solving and community partnerships.
DCF’s in-service training programs are designed with the workforce’s needs in mind using the latest theories and practice-based methods. The training material is directly relevant to DCF social worker practice. The training also utilizes interactive facilitation to allow new staff to practice skills. The goal is to provide new staff with tools that will enhance their ability to work with families in the context of child welfare.
Pre-service
Pre-service DCF training is designed to prepare new employees for their role as DCF supervisors. The training covers topics such as leadership, motivation, and communication. Participants also learn about performance evaluation, problem-solving, and planning employee performance. They also learn about DCF’s Communities of Practice.
The Child Welfare Institute has designed a unique methodology for new staff training, using adult learning theory to create the most engaging experience possible. This approach ensures that the content directly applies to DCF social worker practice. The training also uses interactive facilitation, which allows new staff to practice skills in real-life settings. Ultimately, new staff learn how to use tools and strategies to build trust and promote well-being in families.
Requirements
There are several requirements for DCF training. These include a thorough understanding of the DCF regulations and the knowledge necessary to become a DCF foster parent. There is also a specific module that is designated as trauma/crisis-specific. In these courses, you will learn how to deal with issues and address them appropriately.
For example, if you are a DCF staff member, you can earn up to 4.5 CEUs by taking a Child Development Associate (CDA) course. This training can also help renew your staff credential in Florida. This training is recognized by the Florida Department of Children and Families as one of the recommended courses to maintain your license.
Costs
DCF training has several costs. The program may cost thousands of dollars, and DCF staff may receive financial assistance to pay for some or all of their tuition. The program’s cost allocation methodology is based on the training length, each participant’s salary, and the amount of non-salary expenses they incur.
Many states require 40 hours of training before DCF professionals are certified. Training that covers this requirement often has a certificate of completion. Once completed, the certificate can be used to practice in various fields.
