Using the Handbook

Did You Know?

Social Workers/Probation Officers are required by law to give foster youth a copy of their rights and review them with them in a way they understand:

  • when they are initially placed into foster care,
  • at every placement change, and
  • at least once every six months.

The law also requires foster youth to sign written acknowledgement that they received and reviewed their rights.

The information provided in the Foster Youth Rights Handbook IS the LAW.

Educating foster youth about their rights empowers them to advocate for themselves and make informed decisions about their lives.

Empowering foster youth helps them develop the resilience they need to thrive and succeed!

Teenager laughing in street

Empowering foster youth helps them develop the
resilience they need to thrive and succeed!

Tips for Using the Foster Youth Handbook

When youth are placed in foster care for the first time and are in your care, use the information on Page 4 to help them understand the child welfare system.

Use page 5 to make sure the youth has important contact information. Help them note it.

Use the tips on page 7 to help youth develop strategies to calm down when upset. Help them add ideas of their own to the list!

Use the diagram on page 13 to engage youth in conversation and an activity about people who are important to them.

Use the chart on page 23 to help youth talk about their psychotropic medication. Help them increase their knowledge about these medications.

Social worker talking to teenager

Use the diagram on page 28 to help youth plan for their future career.

Use page 39 to empower youth by helping them plan to be an active participant in their upcoming CFT.

Use the guide on page 40 to help youth learn what to do if they think their rights have been violated.

Use the Handbook to help youth understand what to expect and prepare for important events, like a court hearing.

Woman helping child in wheelchair with writing