Tips for Care Providers Attending Child Welfare Team Meetings
- Be Prepared: Consider in advance – the type of meeting you will be attending (Home Visit, IEP, Ice Breaker, Court Hearing) – and what information will be discussed including questions you may be asked. If helpful, discuss the team meeting in advance with the county or agency social worker.
- Review: Know the new child’s case plan outline and what services are being provided by the county, private agency – and you — to meet the child’s immediate needs.
- Discuss: What have you observed, heard, and recorded regarding the new child? Use simple who, what, where, and when language – to describe child behaviors and declarations.
- Stay Connected: Collect names and contact numbers of other team child members. Know the team players and how they are connected to providing services for your new child – (mental health. medical, psychological, tutoring, In-Home Support Services, etc.). Take notes.
- Follow up: If you are asked to complete a child care task (record unusual incidents, dispense special medications, etc.) record how and when you completed the new child action.