AG 1998 04 20 - Laserfiche WebLink

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4.1 Work with families of these residents is done mainly by the DSS social worker. The social worker begins by doing an assessment of the home setting including identifying problems that contributed to the child's placement. A service agreement is then finalized between the parent(s) and social worker identifying goals, time limits and activities to alleviate those problems. Home visits with the family, as well as plan of care conferences at the home and office meetings at the DSS, are held often between the social worker and the family. A visitation agreement is signed stating when the child may visit, the length of the visit, and any special requirements for supervision during the visit. Community referrals are made for families needing services through mental Health, Vocational Rehabilitation, financial services, and housing services. Transportation by DSS social worker is provided to the family in identifying problems, goal setting, problem solving, communication, reality-based therapy, and parent-child relationships. Education is provided regarding parenting skills, child development, budgeting, and other identified needs within the family. The family participates in staffings and review team meetings and accompanies the social worker in assessing long-term placement plans if they do not include a return home. All children in the program will be responsible for maintaining their own laundry and keeping their room clean. Children will be assigned household chores and inspections will be held once a week. All children in the program attend public school and if they are suspended, they will follow a school schedule with educational materials in the home. Individual privileges and activities according to the child's interests are given daily unless the child is on re~i~icfion. Group activities are planned and the group decides on the activity particularly for weekends. Children are permitted to visit with family if approved by their social worker for the weekend. Group sessions for discussion are held regarding problems in peer relationships or if there is a problem with the group interacting. Individual sessions are held by the director in working with behaviors of the individual child. Plan of care meetings are held every two weeks where the child, parent, court counselor, and social worker fi.om DSS meet with the ~affofthe home and discuss progress towards goals with the child, both individ;~_~J and family. Children are provided an allowance each week. All children are involved in the Lutheran Family Services Teen Support Group which meets weekly, with rotating themes of Service, Fellowship, Education and Recreation. All residents may participate in the Boys Club and activities that the club provides in the community. Holidays and birthdays are acknowledged with group participation and volunteers assisting with special occasions for the residents.