This blog will serve as a comprehensive guide to free foster parent training options. It will also cover the importance of training, how to meet the required training hours, and where to find both in-person and online classes. 

How to Get Certified and Meet Your Training Hours 

Becoming a foster parent is a rewarding journey, but it requires preparation and dedication. One of the most important steps is completing the required foster parent training, which equips you with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide a safe and supportive environment for children in need. Fortunately, all organizations in Arkansas offer free foster parent training, both online and in-person, making it easier to meet the required training hours without financial barriers.

Why Foster Parent Training Is Essential 

Foster parent training helps you feel prepared to welcome your first placement into your home. Foster parents say that the training helped them feel more confident and comfortable. The foster parent training courses can be a great time to ask questions and gain new skills, such as: 

• Trauma-informed care: Techniques for helping children cope with trauma. 

• Child development: Understanding the emotional, social, and physical development stages of children. 

• Behavior management: Strategies for dealing with challenging behaviors in a positive and constructive way. 

• Communication skills: Effectively communicating with children, biological parents, and caseworkers. 

In Arkansas, becoming a certified foster home requires a minimum of 15 training hours before approval. These hours are typically completed through a combination of in-person classes and online courses, with all training materials provided by the agency.

How to Meet Your Foster Parent Training Hours for Free 

Meeting your foster care training hours doesn’t have to be costly. All foster care agencies provide free foster care training both online and in-person. These programs allow you to complete the required hours without having to pay for classes. When you are ready to begin your journey to become a foster home, the Every Child Arkansas team will help you find an agency near you that offers training.

Some tips for meeting your training hours: 

• Check with your local agency: Reach out to your local foster care agency for a list of approved free training programs and available classes. All training materials and requirements will be provided by the agency.
• Take advantage of free online courses: Platforms like Foster Parent College or Child Welfare Information Gateway offer plenty of courses that can count toward training hours. 

• Track your progress: Be sure to keep a record of your agency-approved completed courses and certificates to ensure you meet your state’s training hour requirements. 

By combining online classes and local resources, you can complete your required training hours at no cost.  

Free In-Person Foster Care Classes Near You 

For those who prefer learning in a classroom setting, many communities offer free foster care classes at local agencies, nonprofits, or social service centers. These classes provide hands-on training and the opportunity to connect with other foster parents. 

Here’s how to find foster care classes near you: 

• Contact your local foster care agency: Agencies often hold free training workshops and classes for current and prospective foster parents. 

Use search terms like foster care classes near me or foster classes near me to find local resources. Always confirm that the courses are approved by your state’s foster care agency. 

How to Get a Foster Care Training Certificate 

After completing your foster parent training, you’ll typically receive a training certificate from the agency you’ve partnered with. This certificate is often required for both initial certification and ongoing recertification. 

Steps to obtain your certificate: 

1. Complete the required training hours through approved online or in-person courses. 

2. Submit your completed courses and certificates to your foster care agency for approval. 

3. Receive your official foster care certification, which allows you to start or continue your foster parenting journey. 

Online programs like Foster Parent College and National Foster Parent Association provide certificates upon completion of their free courses, making it easy to stay compliant with state requirements. 

Free Foster Parent Training Resources  

There are countless free resources available to help foster parents continue their education and improve their caregiving skills. These resources can be especially helpful for ongoing education and specialized training.  

Get started today and take the first step toward making a difference in a child’s life through foster care! Every Child Arkansas is here to walk with you on this journey. Reach out to us, and we can help answer questions and talk through next steps!