This training is for licensed and unlicensed caregivers and relative / kinship providers to learn to support children and youth in their care who may be questioning their sexual orientation or gender identity or who may identify as LGTBQ+. It is good for all caregivers to receive this training because it is important that all children and youth in care feel safe, accepted and supported.
Research shows that lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning and two spirit (LGBTQ+) youth are overrepresented in the foster care system. LGBTQ+ youth in out of home care face additional challenges such as discrimination, stigma and bullying. LGBTQ+ children/youth feel unsafe and face rejection from their families, schools and community. Many times, LGBTQ+ youth do not have access to appropriate health care and mental health resources.
This eLearning course was developed from Connecting, a prevention-focused program specifically for foster parents and relative caregivers, and teens in out of home care. Connecting was created using input and advice from social workers, caregivers, and LGBTQ+ foster youth.
This eLearning will provide caregivers an overview of the:
- Myths and stereotypes about LGBTQ+ children/youth and will provide facts and realities;
- Fundamental facts and terms about LGBTQ+ children/youth;
- Provide opportunities for activities for caregivers and children/youth;
- Address safety issues and develop plans for children/youth safety; and
- Learn how to promote the health, safety and well-being of the children/youth in care.
This eLearning will allow the caregiver to complete activities on their own as well as together with the children/youth in their care if they agree.
Caregivers
- Click on the blue "Go to eLearning" button below
- When the course page appears, click on the "Launch" button
For assistance with profiles or passwords, you may contact our Help Desk by emailing alliancesupport@uw.edu.
DCYF staff can register for Connecting: Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity & Expression (SOGIE) through the Washington State Learning Center (WSLC). For help with WSLC, please contact DCYF.LearningCenter@dcyf.wa.gov.
Other workforce members can click the button below to take the eLearning course. You will need to create a training profile account if you do not already have one. Use this if you are CWTAP, Tribal Workers, Private Agency, and Judicial Personnel (incl. CASA/GAL). For help with this webform, please contact Alliance Support via alliancesupport@uw.edu.