Training & Resources

At Caring Hearts, we empower foster families with comprehensive, supportive training and resources designed for success:
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Pre-Service Training (NTDC Curriculum)
You’ll complete the National Training and Development Curriculum (NTDC)—a 19-hour training covering child attachment, trauma-informed care, loss, grief, and working with the child welfare system. It equips you with foundational knowledge and best practices.
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Required Courses & Certifications
To meet state licensing standards, you’ll also complete:-
CPR & First Aid
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Medical Consent training
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Psychotropic Medication Training
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Preventing & Recognizing Youth Sexual Abuse
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Suicide Intervention & Prevention (ASK?)
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Annual Continuing Education
Ongoing learning is required to stay current:-
10 training hours per family caring for children needing basic care
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25 hours per foster parent (50 hours per home) for those providing treatment-level care.
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Additional DFPS Training Options
Caring Hearts fosters use DFPS-offered courses for deeper skill-building, such as:-
Trauma-Informed Care Training
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Normalcy Training (helping children engage in developmentally appropriate activities)
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Runaway Prevention
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Medical Consent and Psychotropic Medications Training.
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Ongoing Support & Community Resources
Alongside training, we offer:-
In-home visits and coaching from clinical coordinators
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24/7 on-call support in emergencies
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Access to local and statewide foster parent associations, events, and peer networks
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Rainbow Room
Houston & Harris County:-
Located in Houston and Harris County, the Rainbow Room is operated by BEAR: Be A Resource for CPS Kids, coordinated by Merri Hahn.
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Address: 3572 East TC Jester Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77018
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Phone: (713) 274-9856
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This resource center provides vital supplies—such as clothing, school supplies, diapers, and hygiene items—to children in foster care via CPS caseworkers.
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Community Support & Advocacy
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Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA): Trained volunteers assigned to advocate for each child in foster care, offering stability and a consistent supportive presence.
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Foster Family Associations & Networks
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Texas Foster Family Association (TFFA): Offers ongoing support, events, scholarships, and community for both new and experienced foster families in Texas
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