Where Do I Start?
New Foster Parent Training
Trauma training is essential for foster parents to provide the support and care that children in the foster system truly need. Many children in foster care have experienced significant trauma, such as abuse, neglect, or separation from their birth families. Without proper training, foster parents may struggle to understand and respond to the emotional and behavioral challenges these children face. Trauma-informed parenting equips caregivers with the tools to recognize triggers, build trust, and create a safe, nurturing environment that promotes healing and growth. Investing in trauma training not only improves outcomes for children but also empowers foster parents to navigate challenges with confidence and compassion, fostering stronger family connections and brighter futures.
Class Expectations
Please arrive on-time. If you are more than 15 minutes late, we will ask you to attend that session the next time it is offered.
For Zoom classes, expect to be on camera for the duration of the class.
Please leave children and pets at home for in-person classes.
Class dates and times are subject change, but we will do what we can to avoid this as much as possible.
Please complete the Pre-test for each class before attending. The Post-test password will be given out at the end class.
When you join an online class, please write your name and region in the chat. Your instructor might also want you to write down their phone number in case you are disconnected.
Trainers
Northern: Anna Gibson anna.gibson@utahfostercare.org
Salt Lake Valley: Terumi Sagers terumi.sagers@utahfostercare.org
Western: Terri Rowley terri.rowley@utahfostercare.org
Eastern: McKay Esplin mckay.esplin@utahfostercare.org
Southwest: Denice Beacham denice.beacham@utahfostercare.org
Technical Support
Amy Bates amy.bates@utahfostercare.org
Marshall Shearer marshall.shearer@utahfostercare.org
Training Portal
What’s My Region?
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Current Schedules
Links are live. Click to join.
How to Use the Training Portal
Do I have to take the classes in order?
No, you can jump in whenever and complete classes when it’s most convenient.
What happens if I’m late for a class?
If you’re more than 15 minutes late, we will need to ask you to catch that class the next time it is offered. Classes are offered at least once a month, so you won’t have to wait long.
Do my spouse and I need to be on the same device for online classes?
No, you can be on the same device or different devices. Whatever works best for your situation.
Can I take these classes while I am at work?
In order to get the most out of the trainings, you’ll need to minimize distractions.
Will there be breaks?
Yes, the trainer will schedule a 10 min break at about the halfway point.
Do I need to have my camera on during online classes?
Yes, in order to verify attendance, you will be expected to be on camera for the entire session.
How long do we have to complete the entire series?
24 months
