BCFCE Course Outline
Series 1 (36 hours / 9 modules)
Series 1 consists of nine modules. Each module threads together core themes of teamwork, child and youth development, communications, guiding children’s behaviour, family support, diversity and inclusion, and the MCFD’s Guardianship Model. In many cases, modules will refer to or draw upon content from previous modules so it is recommended that Series 1 modules be taken in sequence below.
Caring for Children: Overview (S1-1) (3 hours)
The first module provides an overview of the training program with an emphasis on the MCFD’s Guardianship Model, the concept of teamwork, and the roles and responsibilities of those providing care to children. Common themes for successive modules are introduced. Themes include child and youth development, developing relationships and communication skills, guiding children’s behaviour, supporting families, and respecting the diversity of children and families.
Communication Skills and Self-Awareness (S1-2) 3 hours)
This module addresses why effective communication skills are foundational to caregiving relationships with children, youth, families, and members of the child care team. The importance of how self-awareness impacts our communication and relationships with others is emphasized.
Effects of Caregiving (S1-3) (3 hours)
Learners explore the possible impacts of caregiving on the foster family and on self. Relationships within neighbourhood and community are also discussed. The signs and sources of stress will be addressed, as well as methods for managing them.
The Child’s Family (S1-4) (3 hours)
This module emphasizes the importance of family to the child and promotes an understanding of the child’s family. The caregiver’s role in working with and involving the child’s family is explored.
Observing, Recording, and Reporting (S1-5) (3 hours)
This module addresses the importance of communicating succinct, accurate, and relevant information to the child’s worker and other professionals involved with the child. Participants will learn about the benefits and purposes of observing and recording, describe the differences between behavioural description and behavioural interpretation, identify what is relevant to record in a daily log, and discuss when to report relevant information to the appropriate member of the care team.
Child and Youth Development (S1 – 6) (3 hours)
This module helps caregivers understand how children and youth develop and grow, and will explore potential influences on their development. Participants will learn how to support the growth and development of children and youth placed in their care.
Attachment, Separation, and Loss (S1 – 7) (6 hours)
A child being placed in foster care can experience separations from his parents, family members, and other significant people who affect their development and behaviour. In this module, the learner will focus on understanding attachment and loss of attachment through discussion in small groups and through the use of case studies. Participants will also learn to promote healthy attachments in the children/youth in their care.
When Children Experience Abuse and Neglect (S 1-8) (6 hours)
Learners will explore how to recognize the symptoms and indicators of abuse and neglect and the effect on children. Emphasis will be placed on learning ways to deal positively with reactions and feelings about child abuse and how to identify and respond to the needs of abused and neglected children. Understanding how to support a child who is disclosing will be discussed.
Guiding Behaviour of Children and Youth (S1 -9) (6 hours)
This module will introduce ways of understanding and guiding behaviours using a child/youth-centered approach. Learners will explore ways of understanding and being with children and youth where behaviours may present challenges for caregiver(s).
Series 2 (17 hours/5 modules)
While it is recommended that Series 2 be taken after completing Series 1, it is not a requirement.
Cultural Responsiveness (S2 – 1) (3 hours)
Learners will explore how caregivers can welcome and be mindful of the diversity of children and youth-in-care. Learners will address the importance of maintaining cultural identity for children’s healthy development and will learn supportive ways to respond to children’s social and cultural experiences.
Aboriginal Children in care (S2 – 2) (3 hours)
In this module, learners explore the importance of understanding and integrating the child’s Aboriginal culture in ways that promote and enhance the well-being of Aboriginal Children in care. Learners will address the variety of cultural heritages of Aboriginal people within their own region and will learn how to access local Aboriginal resources.
Substance Misuse Awareness (S2 – 3) (3 hours)
Learners will explore the varying degrees of substance use, the indications of substance misuse, and the factors that may contribute to misuse. Participants will learn ways to assist and support a child or youth that misuses substances. Access resources dealing with substance misuse will be discussed.
An Introduction to Fetal Alcohol and Neonatal Abstinence Syndromes (S2 – 4) (3 hours)
This module provides caregivers with some factual information about the effects of prenatal exposure to alcohol on the development of children. Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome will also be introduced. Attention will also be given to understanding the implications of caring for children whose development and behaviours may be influenced by this condition and how to respond and support the needs of these children.
Suicide Awareness (S2 – 5) (5 hours)
Through the use of lecture, experiential exercises, video and group discussions, emphasis will be placed on warning signs, risk assessment, response mechanisms, and where to get help.
