Resource Parent Training

Pre-Approval Training

These classes, offered in person and virtually, are designed to introduce the needs of children in care and how to best meet those needs as a resource parent. Prospective resource parents must complete the prescribed pre-approval training classes in order to become approved resource parents through the County of Orange Social Services Agency (SSA).

Orientation

The orientation provides general information on becoming a resource parent with SSA. Register here or call (888) 871-5437 for more information.

Trauma Informed Parenting

Trauma Informed Parenting focuses on trauma, caregiving, advocacy, and self-care while utilizing a broad variety of multi-age/multicultural case studies.

Partnering with SSA

This class introduces several key topics, concepts and resources that strengthen and empower the vital relationship between resource parents and SSA.

Trust-Based Relational Intervention

Learn how to build trusting relationships with children through a holistic, attachment-based approach using the Connecting, Empowering and Correcting principles.

CPR & First Aid

CPR and First Aid certification for resource parents must be appropriate for the age and needs of the child. For Resource Family Approval, CPR training must cover infants, children and adults. CPR and First Aid must be completed prior to or within 90 days of approval. In-person classes available.

Post-Approval Training

Approved resource parents are required to complete eight hours of annual training in an effort to maintain knowledge and encourage parenting growth and development. Here are some items to keep in mind when selecting continuing education classes:

All courses must be approved by SSA.
A one-time training on Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC) is required.
The eight hours of training may be taken either as online courses or in-person classes.
SSA recommends resource parents strive to complete at least four hours of in-person training.
Each caregiver must provide a certificate of completion for all trainings.

Continuing Education Resources

The FKCE program at Saddleback College provides quality education and support opportunities to caregivers of children in out-of-home care. These free classes are offered at various locations throughout Orange County and virtually. Classes are offered in English and Spanish. Call (949) 582-4884 for more information.

Foster Parent College offers free online training classes for Orange County resource parents. Enrollment is automatic for approved resource parents and an email with login instructions will be sent. Email RFATraining@ssa.ocgov.com for enrollment questions. Trainings are offered in English and Spanish.

Social Services Agency offers a series of classes called Super Saturdays. As a resource parent, you will receive notice of all training opportunities. Resource parents providing permanency for a dependent child will be asked to attend the
Permanency Options Planning class, offered monthly.

For training information, call (888) 871-5437 or email RFATraining@ssa.ocgov.com. Trainings are offered in English and Spanish

This 16 hour training (four modules) builds on concepts learned in previous introductory CSEC classes. Learn strategies on how to best support and parent commercially sexually exploited youth. Please note the four modules must be taken in order.

Interested in learning more about being a mandated reporter? The California Department of Social Services offers free online trainings for all mandated child abuse reporters.

Families and Communities Together (FaCT) is a network of 15 family resource centers located throughout Orange County and provides essential family support services, education and resources. Trainings are offered in English, Spanish and some sites in Vietnamese.