March 2025 Issue 84

Self-Injury Awareness Month

Foster care is a system designed to provide temporary or long-term care for children who are unable to live with their biological families due to various reasons. This system aims to provide children with a safe and stable environment where they can grow and thrive. However, children in foster care often face numerous challenges, including the risk of self-injury.

Self-injury, also known as self-harm, is a behavior that involves deliberately harming one's body without the intention of suicide. It is often used as a coping mechanism for emotional pain, stress, or trauma. Self-injury can take many forms, including cutting, burning, scratching, hitting, or biting oneself.

Studies have shown that children in foster care are at a higher risk of self-injury compared to their peers. The reasons for this are complex and multifaceted. Many children in foster care have experienced neglect, abuse, or trauma before entering the system. The loss of their biological family, coupled with the instability of moving from one placement to another, can exacerbate these feelings of isolation and hopelessness.

Children in foster care may also face unique challenges that can contribute to self-injury. They may feel stigmatized or ashamed of being in foster care, which can lead to feelings of low self-worth and self-blame. They may also feel like they have no control over their lives, which can lead to a sense of powerlessness and despair.

It is essential for caregivers and professionals in the foster care system to be aware of the signs of self-injury and to provide appropriate support and interventions. Some signs of self-injury may include unexplained cuts, bruises, or burns on the body, wearing long sleeves or pants to cover up injuries, or frequent isolation and avoidance of social situations.

If a child in foster care is engaging in self-injury, it is important to approach the situation with compassion and understanding. Caregivers and professionals should create a safe and supportive environment where the child feels comfortable expressing their feelings and receiving help. They should also work with the child to develop healthy coping mechanisms, such as talking to a trusted adult, engaging in physical activity, or practicing relaxation techniques.

In addition, caregivers and professionals should work to address the underlying causes of self-injury. This may involve therapy, medication, or other forms of treatment to help the child cope with past trauma and build resilience for the future.

Overall, self-injury is a serious concern for children in foster care, but with the right support and interventions, it is possible to reduce the risk and promote healing. By raising awareness of this issue and providing appropriate care and resources, we can help children in foster care lead happier, healthier lives.

DDD Eligibility and Process

When a child enters DCS care, their needs should be assessed as soon as possible to determine what developmental support they need. All children will receive a Rapid Response Assessment. If this initial assessment uncovers concerns for their development, additional referrals should be made. Children under the age of 3 should be referred to the Arizona Early Intervention Program (AzEIP) for early intervention services, such as speech, occupational, or physical therapies. A referral can be made any time during the case, so long as the child is under age 3. This referral can be completed by the Specialist or the caregiver. Children may qualify for services through the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD), as long as they have a qualifying diagnosis. The AzEIP specialist will submit the referral for a child under age 3. The qualifying diagnoses for ages 3 to 6 are Autism Spectrum Disorder, Cerebral Palsy, Intellectual (Cognitive) Disability, Epilepsy, Down Syndrome or be at-risk for developing one of these disabilities. Children ages 3-6 may also qualify for DDD if they are considered at risk for a developmental delay or disability. At-risk conditions are: spina bifida with Arnold Chiari malformation; periventricular leukomalacia; chromosomal abnormalities with high risk for cognitive disability such as Down Syndrome; Autism Spectrum Disorder; post-natal traumatic brain injury such as “abusive head trauma” or near drowning; hydrocephaly; microcephaly; alcohol- or drug-related birth defects such as Fetal Alcohol Syndrome; birth weight under 1000 grams (2.2 lbs) with evidence of neurological impairment. Children in this age bracket may also be considered eligible for DDD if they demonstrate a significant developmental delay and a strong potential the child will have a developmental disability, indicated by a 50% delay in one of the following five developmental domains or that the child has 25% delay in two or more of the following five domains: physical (fine and gross/motor, vision, or hearing); cognitive; communication; social-emotional; self-help.

If the child does not yet have a qualifying diagnosis but has signs or symptoms of one of these disorders, the child’s primary care physician can assist with providing referrals to the necessary providers and specialists who can assess for a diagnosis. Qualified providers include a licensed psychiatrist, psychologist, physician, or developmental pediatrician. In addition to having a qualifying diagnosis, a child age six or older must also demonstrate functional limitations in at least three of the seven major life activities: receptive and expressive language; learning; self-direction; economic self-sufficiency; self-care; mobility; capacity for independent living.

Once the child receives a diagnosis that appears to meet DDD eligibility criteria, the child shall promptly be referred to DDD. The assigned Specialist should work with the caregiver and child's team to complete the DDD Eligibility Packet and submit it along with all necessary supporting documents.

If the child is approved for DDD services, the caregiver is able to apply to become a Child Developmental Home (CDH). This can be done through certain licensing agencies (caregiver should first check with their current licensing agency) or directly through DDD. Be sure to review the qualifications and requirements for this type of licensure. Due to the increased level of care and additional services being provided to the child, the reimbursement rate is adjusted accordingly. If a caregiver does not meet the requirements or does not wish to become a CDH, the caregiver is still expected to meet the child’s needs and may qualify for a special rate. A Special Rate Assessment can be submitted by the DCS Specialist or the caregiver's Licensing Worker. (Note: This can also be submitted if the child does not meet DDD eligibility but still has higher needs. See DCS Program Policy Chapter 4: Section 10 for Foster Home Special Rate Approval Guidelines and the application.) If the caregiver does not believe that they can meet the child’s special needs in their home, they should reach out to the child’s team and assigned Specialist to discuss alternatives.

If the child has a significant disability that requires a nursing home level of care, the child may qualify for the Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS), which may then cover or supplement additional services and supports. This is an extensive and challenging process, and the child’s team should collaborate closely with DDD if this is a possibility.

For questions regarding DDD eligibility, contact DDD at 1-844-770-9500 or email DDDApply@azdes.gov.

Out-of-Home Provider Investigations

Often, foster caregivers raise concerns regarding possible allegations of maltreatment of children placed in their care. While it doesn't happen on every case with every child, the reality is that allegations do happen, and families should be informed of and prepared for the possibility. It is vital that families document any issues with the child, even a small bump at daycare or a concerning statement that the child makes, by following all reporting procedures set by DCS and the licensing agency. Although it may not prevent allegations, it may be helpful to provide during an investigation.

This brochure provides the step-by-step process that will be taken by the DCS Specialist/OCWI (Office of Child Welfare Investigations) Investigator.

Provider Indemnity Program (PIP)

Did you know that the State of Arizona provides liability coverage for foster caregivers while caring for a child in DCS care? The Provider Indemnity Program, better known as PIP, provides insurance to cover losses caused by an occurrence or wrongful act resulting from the actions of an individual provider or a covered client. The claim does NOT go through DCS or your licensing agency, nor do you need permission to file a claim; it should be submitted directly to the Office of the Attorney General.

Trauma-Informed Care Training

The impact of trauma on young children and the importance of relationships to help children recover from traumatic events

This online training for birth, kinship, foster, and adoptive families includes an overview of the importance of relationships, trauma, how young children are affected by trauma, feelings and behaviors young children may exhibit, and how caregivers can help.

Hosted by Southwest Human Development, this training is facilitated by Molly Strothkamp, MSW, LCSW, IMH-E, child therapist at the Birth to Five Center of Excellence. This class is free and offered one Saturday per month and one weeknight every other month. Registration is limited and closes 48 hours prior to each training.

Questions? Please contact Molly Strothkamp at mstrothk@swhd.org.

Mercy Care Training Series: Trauma Informed Care

The Mayfly Project

PickleBall Tournament

Prescott-Area Foster Families: FREE Monthly Events

Sponsored by The League of Extraordinary Grandparents, volunteer grandparents will guide children in making crafts, painting, storytelling, games and more!

• WHO CAN ATTEND: Children in foster care, ages 4 – 10. Bio siblings may also attend, as long as they are between ages 4 – 10. All children must be registered in advance.
• WHEN: Every 3rd Saturday of the month in 2025 – March 15, April 19, May 17, June 21, July 19, August 16, September 20, October 18, November 15, December 20.
• LOCATION: Prescott Valley (details will be provided upon registration)
• TIME: 9 AM – 12 PM
• SNACKS: Snacks and drinks are provided.

Helen's Hope Chest

Parenting Classes

Adoption Tax Credit

Tax season is coming up quickly. Be prepared and knowledgeable regarding how foster care and adoption affect your tax preparation. Note: DCS employees are NOT tax professionals and CANNOT answer tax questions. Your assigned Specialist can provide you with the SSN of the children in your care or a letter stating placement dates if an audit occurs. Consult a tax professional for further questions.

• IRS Topic 607: Adoption Credit
• IRS Publication 4694: Raising Grandchildren
• IRS Qualifying Child Rules
• 1040.com Foster Parent Tax Guide

FAS/KSS Provider & Foster/Kinship Caregiver High Five Nomination Form

OLR Supports is focused on the fostering community in the areas of recruitment, retention, and recognition. We believe that it is important to promote an engaged and inspired fostering culture.

We appreciate the fostering community’s dedication to the children and families that are in DCS care, and we want to hear all of the good works so that we can give recognition and thanks for the impact you have on this community every day.

Please complete an FAS/KSS Provider & Foster/Kinship Caregiver High Five Nomination Form when you want to recognize a foster family, a licensing worker or agency, DCS Specialist/Supervisor or other employee, community partner, attorney, CASA, judge, mentor, or other fostering community member.

ASA Now

ASA Now is a non-profit organization that ADVOCATES for, SUPPORTS, and ASSISTS children and families impacted by foster care. We are passionate about providing support to families and professionals by restoring hope and empowering them to better serve these children in need.

Warmline Supports Kinship and Foster Families

The Foster Parent Warmline is available for kinship families and licensed foster parents. While not an emergency number, Warmline staff can assist with information, timely communication, and support. It is not intended to discourage or replace direct and regular communication between the DCS Specialist and the out-of-home caregiver. You can reach the Warmline by calling 1-877-KIDSNEEDU (1-877-543-7633). Please be prepared with your name, the child's name, DOB, and dates of placement/departure, as well as an explanation of the issue. The Warmline is manned by staff Monday-Friday 8am-5pm (AZ time), excluding state holidays. You may also send an email to Warmline@azdcs.gov and include the above information.

Children's Heart Gallery

More than 70 percent of the children in need of forever families are adopted by their relatives or foster parents. For the remainder, special recruitment efforts like the Heart Gallery are used to connect them with a forever family.

The children featured in the Heart Gallery represent all ethnic groups and range in age from toddlers to teenagers. Some have special behavioral or medical needs, some are without siblings, and others are in groups of siblings.

Ariel