A non-specific file number generated by the Emergency Response Command Post (ERCP) identifying a placement case that is transferred from ERCP directly to a regional Family Maintenance and Reunification (FM&R) or generic (G) file.

A type of claim filed by the attorney representing the child in a dependency action. The claim contains a statement of injury to a dependent child and, in some cases, the person or entity which has caused the injury. The claim is filed with the Presiding Judge of the Dependency court who appoints an attorney to represent the child or assigns the claim to the Los Angeles County Bar Tort Panel. See "Non-Dependency Court Litigation."

See "Aid for the Adoption of Children (AAC) Program."

See "Adoption Assistance Program (AAP)."

See "Adoption Assistance Program (AAP)-Eligible Child."

See "Child Abuse."

Physical injury on a child which is inflicted by other than accidental means, or sexual abuse or neglect, or unlawful corporal punishment or injury, or the willful cruelty or unjustifiable punishment of a child (see definition), where the person responsible for the child’s welfare is a licensee, administrator, or employee of any facility licensed to care for children or an administrator or employee of a public or private school or other institution or agency. See "Child Abuse," "Accidental Means," "Sexual Abuse," "Neglect," Corporal Punishment," "Injury," "Willful Cruelty," and "Unjustifiable Punishment."

Same as "Accepted for In-Person Investigation Referral."

See "Assistance to Children in Emergency (ACE) System."

The most serious medical complications of infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). AIDS infects and damages white blood cells, called "helper" T-cells, which are important to the immune system and the body’s defense against infection. In order for a person to be diagnosed as having AIDS, the virus and damage to the immune system must be present.

See "Model Case Format."

See "Hearings."

A person who has filed a petition to adopt a child who has been in the person’s physical care. See "Prospective Adoptive Parent."

A legal process in which a child is freed from his or her birth parents by relinquishment, consent or termination of parental rights and placed with applicants who have been approved to take a child into their own family and raise as their own with all of the rights and responsibilities granted thereto including, but not limited to, the right of inheritance. Adoption terminates any inheritance from the parents or other relatives to the child unless they make specific provision by will or trust; the child legally inherits from his or her adoptive parents. The adoption of an American Indian child terminates inheritance from the biological parents or other relatives to the child; however, any rights or benefits the child has or may be eligible for as a result of his or her status as an American Indian are unaffected. (Title 22, California Administrative Code, Division 2, Chapter 3, Subchapter 4).

The process of gathering, evaluating and documenting information relevant to the appraisal of a child’s adoptability.

An individualized negotiated agreement between the adoptive parents and the state or county adoption agency based upon the particular needs of the child being adopted.

A mandatory statewide program that provides financial support to families in order to facilitate the adoption of children who would otherwise be in long-term foster care. The intent of this program is to remove limited financial resources as a barrier to adoption.

A child who meets the eligibility criteria defined in WIC Section 16120, i.e., a child whose adoption without financial assistance would be unlikely due to one or more of the following factors:

1. Age (three years or older)
2. Ethnic background, race, color or language
3. Mental, physical, emotional or medical handicap
4. Adverse parental background (see definition)
5. Membership in a sibling group which should remain intact.

The fee for services, including the home assessment, which the Department provides to adoptive applicants/petitioners.

See "Model Case Format."

See "Applicant Assessment."

Any of the following:

1. A licensed private adoption agency.

1. In California, an individual who has presented satisfactory evidence to the State that he or she is a licensed clinical social worker who also has a minimum of five years experience providing professional social work services while employed by a licensed California adoption agency or the State.
2. In a state other than California, an adoption agency licensed or otherwise approved under the laws of that state, or an individual who is licensed or otherwise certified as a clinical social worker under the laws of that state.
3. Independent legal counsel may serve as an ASP if, after attempting to contact at least three Asps within California, they have been unsuccessful in obtaining the services of an ASP who is reasonably available (i.e., available within five days for an advisement of rights pursuant to Family Code Section 8801.5, or within 24 hours for the signing of the placement agreement. In addition, the ASP must practice within 100 miles of the birth mother and be available for a cost not exceeding $500).

A person who has obtained an order of adoption.

There are two categories of "adverse decisions by the court." They are:

1. An order which is contrary to a Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) recommendation and/or which DCFS believes places the child at risk.
2. An order which is contrary to DCFS policy, regulations, and/or one for which DCFS has no funding, resource, or provision

In the context of the Adoption Assistance Program (AAP), any factor or combination of factors, including but not limited to, a history of incest or other sexual abuse; a history of mental or physical illness within the biological family; severe neglect, mental or physical abuse by birth parent(s) or other caretaker(s), which could result in mental, physical or emotional handicaps.

See "Aid to Families With Dependent Children-Foster Care."

See "CalWORKs."

The adoption of a child in which DCFS, an agency licensed by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS), is a party to or joins in the petition for adoption.

The prospective adoptive parent(s) in an agency adoption.

An adoption assistance program on behalf of special needs children whose assistance agreements were executed prior to October 1, 1982.

Foster care financial assistance paid on behalf of children in out-of-home placement who meet the eligibility requirements specified in applicable state and federal regulations and laws. The program is administered by DCFS.

See "Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome."

A term used prior to October 1988 to describe various conditions in which an HIV-positive person showed some symptoms of HIV infection but not the opportunistic infections, which define, AIDS. It was made obsolete by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) classification system (see "Classification of Pediatric HIV Infection").

In the context of investigating claims of abuse and/or neglect in out-of-home care, a statement, claim or declaration asserting abuse, neglect, exploitation or violation of CCLD licensing standards.

See "Father."

See "Auxiliary Legal Services (ALS)."

See "Petition."

See "Pro Bono Orthodontia Program."

Proteins generated by the body’s immune system in response to natural infection, immunization or other foreign substances (e.g., toxins). Antibodies made by the immune system following normal immunizations are "protective" in that they create an immunity to the virus or bacteria in the vaccine. Several types of HIV antibodies are produced by the body’s immune system when it is infected with HIV. Some are protective, while others accelerate the disease process.

See "Hub Services: King/Drew Medical Center."

An enzyme, toxin or other substance to which the body reacts by producing antibodies.

In the context of court decisions, the process by which any legal party to a court action requests a review of a trial court’s decision by a higher court.

See "Hearings."

For DCFS, the County Counsel who represents DCFS in the Appellate Court when an appeal is filed by a legal party in a Dependency Court action. The appellate attorney is also responsible for filing writs for DCFS. An appeal/writ can be filed by any legal party to a Dependency Court action, including parent(s), legal guardian(s), a child, or their counsel, or County Counsel (on behalf of DCFS).

In the context of adoption, a person who has submitted to a licensed adoption agency (e.g., DCFS) a written application to adopt a child and who is being considered by that agency for the adoptive placement of a child.

The social investigation, study and preparation of a family who wishes to adopt. This includes visits to the home; interviews with family members; criminal and child abuse background checks; verification of employment and income; and an assessment of the applicant’s family, mental, emotional, medical and marital history. Formerly known as Adoption Homestudy.

See "Model Case Format."

In the context of AFDC-FC, a written request (SAWS 1), Application for Cash Aid, Food Stamps, and/or Medi-Cal/State CMSP) for foster care on behalf of a child who has been placed in out-of-home care.

The document used to request the Dependency court’s approval to cite the absent parent(s) to a WIC 366.26 hearing through newspaper publication.

See "Children’s Social Worker (CSW) Self-Directed Training."

An individual or couple who has been studied and approved by a licensed adoption agency (e.g., DCFS) to adopt a child.

See "Automated Provider Payments System."

See "AIDS-Related Complex."

See "Hearings."

See "Adoption Service Provider."

See "Automated Special Payments System."

See "Adoption Assessment."

The process of gathering, evaluating and documenting information, e.g., the level of risk to the child, the truth of the allegations of neglect or abuse, an appraisal of the need for services for the child and the family, etc.

In the context of adoption home study procedures, a factor used by a licensed adoption agency to assess an applicant’s suitability to become an adoptive parent, such as the applicant’s motivation to adopt; the

applicant’s family, mental, emotional, medical, marital, financial, and employment history; and, if applicable, any criminal and child abuse history.

Any desk where DCFS cases are assigned to CSWs. This may include the Opening and Transfer Desks.

The statewide tracking system developed to register, verify an episode and establish the Not to Exceed (NTE) date of Emergency Assistance (EA) recipients.

In the context of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), children whose high-risk behaviors/medical histories or those of their parents expose them to the risk of HIV infection.

High-risk behaviors include: sharing needles with HIV-infected persons in activities such as intravenous (IV) injections; tattooing; ear-piercing; "blood brother" rituals; or, certain satanic rites and sexual activities involving exposure to the semen or blood of HIV-infected persons.

Parental high-risk behaviors/medical histories put a child at risk primarily through the danger of maternal transmission of HIV from an infected mother to the fetus during pregnancy or birth. In addition, transmission from an infected mother to the child can occur, at a rate of up to 20%, through breast-feeding.

High-risk medical histories are blood or blood products transfusions or tissue transplants received prior to June, 1985.

The major categories of individuals who should be tested for HIV are:

1. Adolescents with the following histories: chronic runaway, prostitution, intravenous drug use, unsafe sexual practices, multiple sexual partners, sexually-transmitted disease, sexual partner who is high-risk or HIV-positive, or being the parent of an HIV-positive child. Also, an adolescent who, after a discussion of his or her personal risk factors, expresses interest in HIV testing should be tested.
2. Persons with signs or symptoms suggestive of immune deficiency or dysfunction, including infants being tested for congenital "TORCH" (toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus, and herpes) infections and patients with: opportunistic infections (see definition); recurrent severe bacterial infections; TB; very high levels of immunoglobulin; unexplained, progressive wasting, myopathy, nephritis, hepatitis, carditis, or neurologic disease; or laboratory evidence of T-cell deficiency or dysfunction.
3. A symptomatic persons at high-risk for HIV exposure, including children born to HIV-positive or high-risk parents; recipients of blood or blood products, transfusions or tissue transplants in a country where HIV screening was not performed at the time of the procedure.
4. Potential donors for blood, bone marrow, tissue or solid organ transplants.

A foster parent or relative who has applied to adopt the child residing in his or her care. (S)he is considered to be "attached" to the child because of an existing relationship.

A child for whom adoption is the identified permanent plan and who is in out-of-home placement with a relative or foster caregiver who intends to adopt the child.

A relatively enduring affectional bond between two individuals, over time, in response to familiarity and care-giving. There is an innate tendency to seek proximity and make an attachment to a differentiated individual who is generally seen as stronger and wise. This explains its occurrence and continuance even in situations of abuse and/or neglect (Bowlby, 1980).

Patterns of behavior such as calling or clinging, in the young, to more sophisticated methods, as telephoning when older, which enable a person to attain some manner of contact with another (Bowlby, 1980).

A reasonable but unsuccessful effort to have in-person contact with all children alleged to be abused, neglected or exploited and an adult who has information regarding the allegation(s).

See "Completed Response."

That confidential information that is exchanged between all levels of staff and County Counsel or any personnel or agent working on behalf of the County Counsel. All written and verbal communications with County counsel, where legal advice is given, are confidential and should not be disclosed to any non-county staff.

The system that provides payment history information for CalWORKs clients.

The date the EW authorizes assistance and/or services, under the specified Emergency Assistance (EA) program regulations. Authorization of assistance (EA) must take place within 30 calendar days after the date of EA application.

A system that tracks all foster care paid placement authorizations received from the Child Welfare Services Case Management System (CWS/CMS) that includes the following: issues the initial vouchers, computes the vendor payments and processes the information to the Foster Care Payment System for issuance of the foster care warrants and the ongoing vouchers to the providers.

A data entry system that tracks payment authorizations for designated services not directly related to providing foster care. These include Service Provider Payments such as funeral expenses (FEs), and severely emotionally disturbed (SED) placement payments for children placed in group homes by the Department of Mental Health (DMH).

A non-profit corporation that provides attorneys to the County Counsel’s office. County Counsel and Auxiliary Legal Services are the recognized legal representatives for DCFS in matters brought before Dependency Court. See "County Counsel."

See "Family Preservation Program (FPP)."

See "Auditors Warrant Inquiry System."

See "Father."

See "Mother."

See "Vital Records."

Disease-causing micro-organisms (e.g., viruses) that may be present in human blood. They may be transmitted with any exposure to blood or other potentially infectious substances. See "Universal Precautions."

Includes blood, saliva, vomit, semen, urine and feces.

See "Vital Records."

Irreversible cessation of all functions of the entire brain, including the brain stem.

8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding County holidays.

See "Teen Pregnancy Disincentive Program."

Community Advisory Council. See "Family Preservation Program."

See "Child Abuse Central Index - Department of Justice."

An organization established to:

1. provide child care information and referral services to parents who are looking for child care services;
2. provide technical assistance and training to potential providers and existing providers of care; and,
3. advocate for quality childcare.

The California Children Services (CCS) is a branch within the California Children's Medical Services Branch. The Children's Medical Services Branch integrated CCS and Child Health and Disability Prevention programs. CCS coordinates and monitors medical services for Medi-Cal children with CCS-eligible conditions in order to assure they are provided with the highest quality of care available. The goal of CCS is to locate California children who may need specialized medical care and encourage families with children with physical disabilities to obtain necessary medical services to maximize their children's potential.

The state agency in California responsible for aiding, servicing and protecting needy children and adults. At the same time, the Department strives to strengthen and encourage individual responsibility and independence for families. By managing and funding its programs, the objectives of the Department are carried out through the 4,200 employees located in 51 offices throughout the state, the 58 county welfare departments, offices and a host of community-based organizations.

Any child care and development program funded by the California Department of Education (CDE).

Most programs receiving CDE funds are required to give enrollment priority to abused and neglected children and to children who are at risk of abuse or neglect.

CDSS staff who act as an independent forum for the investigation and resolution of complaints made by or on behalf of children placed in foster care and makes appropriate referrals.

Located at: 744 P St., MS 9-025, Sacramento, CA 95814

A system to determine if the subject of an inquiry by DCFS, law enforcement, the District Attorney or any other appropriate inquiring agency possesses a criminal record. DCFS may only request a CLETS clearance when related to child protective services issues.

California’s welfare program for people who have children under 19 years of age. CalWORKs replaced the AFDC-FG/U program. The program provides money for children and the relatives caring for them. In addition, the program places new work and training requirements on most caregivers, and provides supportive services for job seeking.

In the context of the Child Protection Hotline, a return call made by a Child Protection Hotline (CPH) CSW in response to an overflow call in which the caller is reporting child abuse, neglect or exploitation. See "Overflow Call."

See "California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs)."

See "Child’s Attorney Notification Specialists (CANS)."

Any person living with a child who has responsibility for the care and welfare of the child.

See "Foster Care Provider."

See "Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)."

A basic unit of organization in CWS/CMS, created for each child in a referral found to be a victim of a substantiated allegation of child abuse or neglect. When allegations are substantiated, the referral is promoted to a case. Several children and adults can be linked together through related cases. A new case can be created without a referral such as when there is a probation placement case or a Kin-GAP case. Both of these cases are open to Revenue Enhancement for payment purposes only.

See "Model Case Format."

The address determined by Single Index Case Address rules. See "Service Address."

The CSW to whom a case or active referral (see definitions) is assigned.

A written document which is based upon an assessment of the circumstances which required child welfare services intervention and in which the CSW identifies a case plan goal, the objective(s) to be achieved, the specific services to be provided and case management activities to be performed.

The desired outcome of the case plan.

A desired observable outcome (e.g., the child will attend school regularly or the parent will complete a substance abuse program). The case plan objective is part of the assessment that is incorporated by the CSW into the case plan. The CSW identifies a case plan goal, the objectives to be achieved, the specific services to be provided and the timeframe in which the objectives shall be met.

An assignment given to a case plan participant, for which (s)he is accountable and for which completion helps in achieving a specific case plan objective.

A written document, which contains changes, including updates to the information presented in the prior case plan. This includes specific information on the current condition of the child and family.

An activity, in which the CSW and the child and/or his or her family mutually identify a specific goal, the specific services to be used in resolving identified problems, and service delivery methods.

The transfer and reassignment of case responsibility within or between offices and regions or from one CSW to another CSW due to a change in service component type (e.g., ER, FM&R, PP, Voluntary Services).

See "Model Case Format."

The transaction which moves a case from one office to another within a region, from one office to another between regions, or between a regional office and Adoptions Division in order to enhance the service delivery to families and children. Reasons for case transfers between offices may include, but are not limited to, the relocation of the custodial parent and the change of address of the youngest child served in a PP case.

In the context of dependency court hearings, a report generated from CWS/CMS that provides the social worker or supervisor with a schedule of court hearings for a specified caseload. This report functions primarily as a hard copy calendar for the social worker.

See "Community Care Licensing Division."

See "California Children Services."

See "California Department of Social Services."

See "Vital Records."

See "Vital Records."

See "Vital Records."

A home which has applied to CDSS’ Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD) for a foster family home license and has met the criteria for certification as documented by a social worker or probation officer for placement of a specific child pending CDSS CCLD issuing a license.

Community Family Preservation Network. See "Family Preservation Program."

See "Petition."

The assessed strengths and needs of an individual which qualifies or disqualifies an individual to adopt or to have a child placed in his or her home according to state regulations. The assessment process is completed at all levels of child welfare.

See "Child Health and Disability Prevention (CHDP) Program."

The process by which the caregiver is informed of the availability of CHDP services and periodicity.

See "Child Health and Disability Prevention (CHDP) Program."

A regionally issued written order directing a bank to pay money to a client caregiver.

The Departmental handbook developed to provide procedures for the issuance of emergency checks in the regional offices.

The non-accidental commission of injuries against a person. In the case of a child, the term refers specifically to the non-accidental commission of injuries against the child by or allowed by a parent(s)/guardian(s) or other person(s). The term also includes emotional, physical, severe physical, and sexual abuse as defined in Sections 31-002(c)(8) (A) through (D).

1. "Emotional abuse" means nonphysical mistreatment, the results of which may be characterized by disturbed behavior on the part of the child such as severe withdrawal, regression, bizarre behavior, hyperactivity, or dangerous acting-out behavior. Such disturbed behavior is not deemed, in and of itself, to be evidence of emotional abuse.
2. "Physical abuse" means nonaccidental bodily injury that has been or is being inflicted on the child. It includes, but is not limited to, those forms of abuse defined by Penal Code Sections 11165.3 and .4 as "willful cruelty or unjustifiable punishment of a child" and "corporal punishment or injury."
3. "Severe physical abuse" means any single act of abuse which causes physical trauma of sufficient severity that, if left untreated, it would cause permanent physical disfigurement, permanent physical disability, or death; any single act of sexual abuse which causes significant bleeding, deep bruising, or significant external or internal swelling; or repeated acts of physical abuse, each of which causes bleeding, deep bruising, significant external or internal swelling, bone fracture, or unconsciousness.

1. "Sexual abuse" means the victimization of a child by sexual activities, including, but not limited to, those activities defined in Penal Code Section 11165.1(a)(b)(c). See "sexual assault" and "sexual exploitation."

An automated child abuse index within the Department of Justice (DOJ) listing names and other identifying information compiled from child abuse reports submitted to DOJ by mandated child abuse reporting agencies which maintain information regarding allegations of abuse and/or neglect.

Non-medical care and supervision of children under 13 years of age for less than 24 hours per day. Quality child care may be a respite from a chaotic home environment or therapeutic, to resolve problems caused by child abuse and neglect. Childcare may be provided for children 14 to 18 years old if they are mentally retarded, hearing impaired, deaf, speech impaired, visually handicapped, seriously emotionally disturbed or orthopedically impaired. See "Family Preservation Program." See Child Care Resource Center (CCRC)."

1. Child Care Center

   Any child care facility other than family childcare home, including infant centers, preschools and extended day care facilities.

2. Child Care Provider

   A person who has been approved to provide childcare services. Childcare may be provided by licensed facilities as well as persons exempt from licensure.

3. Child Care Services

   Services for children in need of socialization and whose parents or guardians work, attend school and require help with childcare. In the FPP this services will be provided by the Community Family Preservation Network (CFPN) via linkage, or under separate allocation of child care funds. See "Child Care."

4. Mandated Reporter (PC 11165.7)

   A teacher, an instructional aide, a teacher’s aid, or a teacher’s assistant employed by any public or private school who has been trained in the duties imposed by the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA), if the school district has so warranted to the State Department of Education; a classified employee of any public school who has been trained in the duties imposed by CANRA, if the school has so warranted to the State Department of Education; an administrative officer, supervisor of child welfare and attendance, or certified pupil personnel employee of any public or private school; an administrator of a public or private day came; a licensee, an administrator, or an employee of a licensed community care or child day care facility; Head Start teacher; a licensing worker or licensing evaluator; public assistance worker; an employee of a child care institution including, but not limited to, foster parents, group home personnel and personnel of residential care facilities; a social worker or a probation officer or any person who is an administrator or presenter of, or counselor in, a child abuse prevention program in any public or private school.

5. Sectarian Child Care

California’s version of the federal health care program called Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment (EPSDT). It provides comprehensive medical, mental health and dental diagnostic and treatment services for all Medi-Cal eligible persons aged newborn to 21 years who request them. States are required to inform the families of eligible children about CHDP; assist with referral and transportation to providers; and, follow-up to ensure that necessary diagnostic and treatment services are provided. See "Hub Services: King/Drew Medical Center."

1. Child With Special Health Care Needs (CWSHCN)

   A child adjudged a dependent of the court pursuant to Section 300 of the Welfare and Institutions Code who has a medical condition which requires specialized in-home health care that may be provided by non-medical personnel, such as a foster parent trained to provide this care. It also includes those CWSHCN who have been voluntarily relinquished by their parents and who require foster care pending their adoptive placement.

2. Confidential Screening/Billing Report (PM 160)

   The form which records the results of the child’s CHDP health assessment and is completed by the health care provider. On this form, the physician will indicate by a code (1 - 6) whether follow-up is necessary. A code of "1" means that no diagnosis or treatment is indicated or the child is now under care; "2" means that the results are questionable and a recheck has been scheduled; "3" means that a diagnosis has been made and treatment has been started; "4" means that the diagnosis is pending and a return visit has been scheduled; "5" means that the child has been referred to another examiner for diagnosis and/or treatment; and "6" means that the referral was refused. A copy of the PM 160 is given to the child’s parent or guardian and another copy is sent to the local CHDP office. The PM 160 is also used for billing purposes.

3. Dental Examination

   An examination which includes, but is not limited to, dental inspection of the teeth for signs of infection; gross abnormalities; malocclusions (improper alignment of the teeth); painful areas; inflammation of the gums; plaque deposits; and, decayed or missing teeth.

   CHDP dental examinations are billed to Medi-Cal via routine Medi-Cal procedures.

4. Eligibility Criteria

1. Children Entering School

   Children are eligible for one free CHDP health assessment to meet school entry requirements if they are within 200% of CalWORKs income standards and will enter the first grade within 18 months or have entered the first grade within the last 90 days.

   By law, all children entering the first grade are required to have either a certificate of a CHDP health examination or a waiver on file at the school in which they enroll.

   The CHDP program works with the Department of Education in administering and monitoring this requirement. CHDP helps low-income children to meet the requirement by providing them with a state-paid health assessment.

2. Head Start

   Children in Head Start state preschool programs are eligible for regular health assessments while in these programs.

3. Low-Birth-Weight Infants

1. Equivalency Examination

   A medical examination, which includes all, the component of a CHDP examination but is given by a physician who is not a CHDP provider.

2. High-Risk Child

   In the context of CHDP, a child with one or more of the following conditions: A past significant medical problem or chronic illness; possible contagious disease; medication; and/or social problems (e.g., language barrier) which could conceal an unmet medical need.

3. Informing

   The act of advising an eligible child’s parent(s), guardian(s) or out-of-home caregiver about the availability of the CHDP program. For children in placement, initial informing is done verbally by the CSW through face-to-face contact with the out-of-home caregiver at the time a child is placed and in written form, by giving the caregiver a CHDP brochure.

   Annual informing of CHDP is required only for non-CHDP participants (California Code of Regulations, Title 17, Subchapter 13, and Section 6824.b.2) and must be done in writing by giving a CHDP brochure to the out-of-home caregiver.

1. Medical Assessment

   A CHDP medical examination (see definition) given to detect any medical problems and to assess the child’s overall health.

2. Medical Examination

1. A CHDP medical examination includes, but is not limited to, a complete health, nutritional and developmental history and assessment; a "head to toe" unclothed physical examination; a screening for vision, hearing and dental problems; tests for anemia, tuberculosis and abnormalities in the urine; additional tests or exams (e.g., sickle cell anemia or lead poisoning), if needed; and, necessary immunizations.
2. Although an oral screening may be part of a medical examination, it does not substitute for examination through direct referral to a dentist.
3. The CHDP medical examination is billed to the CHDP program. The physician uses form PM 160, Confidential Screening/Billing Report, supplied to all CDHP providers by the Department of Health Services (DHS).

1. Participant

   A child enrolled in the CHDP program.

2. Provider

   A physician or dentist who has agreed to participate in the CHDP program and is certified by the County Department of Health Services.

3. Provider Roster

   A listing of physicians in the county of Los Angeles approved by CHDP to administer CHDP examinations.

   The roster is used by DCFS staff to refer children to CHDP physicians and is also distributed to out-of-home caregivers.

4. Periodicity

   The State’s term for "frequency." The CHDP Periodicity Table shows the schedule of examinations required according to the child’s age.

5. Scheduling Assistance

   Providing the family or out-of-home caregiver with a copy of the CHDP Provider Roster or helping to locate CHDP providers.

1. Transportation Assistance

A situation in which a child is residing outside of his or her own parent’s or guardian’s home in an unlicensed, nonexempt, non-certified home.

A child whose health and safety are in jeopardy as described in WIC Section 305.

WIC Section 305

sexual abuse or the physical environment poses an immediate threat to the child’s health or safety.

A person who, under the jurisdiction of DCFS, is being provided care and supervision in an out-of-home care facility. See "Out-of-Home Care."

A child who has been relinquished for adoption by the parent, or whose parent has given consent for adoption and CDSS response has been received, or for whom the court has terminated parental rights (i.e., a 366.26 hearing), or for whom paternity is denied or there is a waiver of further notice of court proceedings.

A mandated component of Emergency Response Services, administered by the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services, Bureau of Child Protection. The CPH emergency response staff is responsible for assessing any referral, whether verbal or written, which alleges child abuse, neglect or exploitation to determine whether an in-person investigation and consultation is required. The CPH operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Child Welfare Services (CWS) [Welfare and Institutions Code Section 16501(a)]

Public social services which are directed toward the accomplishment of any or all of the following purposes: protecting and promoting the welfare of children, including handicapped, homeless, dependent, or neglected children; preventing or remedying, or assisting in the solution of problems which may result in, the neglect, abuse, exploitation, or delinquency of children; preventing the unnecessary separation of children from their families by identifying family problems, assisting families in resolving their problems, and preventing breakup of the family where the prevention of child removal is desirable and possible;

restoring to their families children who have been removed, by the provision of services to the child and the families; identifying children to be placed in suitable adoptive homes, in cases where restoration to the biological family is not possible or appropriate; and assuring adequate care of children away from their homes, in cases where the child cannot be returned home or cannot be placed for adoption.

See "Teen Pregnancy Disincentive Program, The."

California’s statewide-automated information system composed of multiple software applications that provide comprehensive case management functions.

See "Child Health and Disability Prevention (CHDP) Program" and "Specialized Care Programs."

Support staffs who are responsible for providing the required notification to the child’s attorney, as detailed in a blanket minute order issued by the Presiding Judge of the Dependency court.

A non-profit corporation whose attorneys represent children in dependency court matters. CLC consists of three separate law offices; each headed by a Law Office Director/attorney.

1. CLC Legal Interns

   During the summer, CLC has law school students/paralegal under the

   supervision of CLC attorneys who will contact CSWs regarding a child’s

   current status.

2. CLC Social Workers

In the context of Aid for the Adoption of Children (AAC) Program benefits, one or more of the following conditions present at placement and of such nature as to make adoptive homes unavailable to the child without financial assistance:

1. Physical or mental disability present at birth or resulting from disease or injury;
2. Emotional disturbance; and
3. History of either injury prior to adoptive placement, physical disease or emotional disturbance which may manifest itself in some form of physical, mental or emotional disability after completion of the adoption.

See "Child-in-Home."

See "Non-Dependency Court Litigation."

The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has established a classification system to describe the stages of pediatric HIV infection. They are:

1. Class P-O: Indeterminate Infection

   A transitional classification for HIV antibody-positive infants born to HIV-infected mothers. They are asymptomatic, too young for the IgA protein tests, and may simply have passively transferred maternal antibody. Once defined as HIV-infected, these infants should be reclassified as P-1 or P-2.

2. Class P-1: Asymptomatic Infection

   Subclass A: Normal immune function

   Subclass B: Abnormal immune function

   Subclass C: Immune function not tested

3. Class P-2: Symptomatic Infection

See "Children’s Law Center of Los Angeles:

See "California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System."

See "Hub Services: King/Drew Medical Center."

A DCFS case in which all segments have been terminated on CWS/CMS and Single Index and which the hard copy case has been sent to storage.

Money issued via CWS/CMS to a foster caregiver to purchase clothing for a child who does not have sufficient and/or serviceable clothing at the time of initial placement or replacement. A clothing allowance can be issued only when a child is initially placed or when the child is removed from one foster placement (foster family home, relative, foster family agency (FFA) or group home) and placed in another. It cannot be issued for a child who is removed from one FFA-certified home to another certified home of the same FFA. It cannot be issued for a child who remains in the same home.

• Back to School Clothing Allowance (BTSCA)

See "Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act."

See "Healthy Start Support Services for Children Act."

Contacts made to persons outside the immediate family to assist in assessing child endangerment and in formulating, implementing and evaluating the progress of a case plan. See "Contact."

In the context of foster care and adoptive placement decisions, a person’s skin pigmentation.

Any person who develops exposed photographic film into negatives, slides, or prints, or who makes prints from negatives or slides, for compensation. The term includes any employee of such a person; it does not include a person who develops film, or makes prints for a public agency.

Hearing officers appointed by the Presiding Judge of the Dependency court. Commissioners and referees have the same authority as a judge except that the orders/decisions of commissioners and referees may be reviewed by a judge upon a request for rehearing by any party in the case, unless all parties to the action have previously stipulated that a commissioner or referee is hearing the case as a judge-pro-tem (judge). There are technical differences between commissioners and referees but, for all intents and purposes, they are viewed as having equal authority.

A place or a group of people having common characteristics which transcend place. Communities may be identified by (1) political and geophysical divisions, (2) a history of established neighborhood designations, (3) coalescence around common goals, and/or (4) cultural and other elements of identity, which transcend formal boundaries.

See "Family Preservation Program."

A specialized type of placement facility that provides care for children with special needs, such as behavioral, emotional or medical problems.

The division within the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) responsible for licensing foster care facilities, i.e., foster family homes, foster family agencies, group homes and small family homes.

Additional responsibilities include investigating any reported incident of child abuse, neglect or exploitation in such facilities and/or violations of licensing standards.

See "Family Preservation Program."

Any residential facility that provides mental health treatment services to children in a group setting and has the capacity to provide secure containment.

Two or more cases which share closely related facts, but required the filing of separate petitions. Companion cases almost always begin in the Emergency Response phase.

In the context of foundational requirements for young children’s statements in social studies, a child’s capacity to understand the difference between a truth and a lie and to perceive, remember and communicate facts accurately, as determined by the court.

The ability to express the information to be communicated and capability of understanding the duty to tell the truth.

In-person contact with all children alleged to be abused, neglected or exploited and an adult who has information regarding the allegation(s). See "Attempted Response."

See "Hub Services: King/Drew Medical Center."

See "Healthy Start Support Services for Children Act."

Familiar with computer basics and able to use a computer.

The simultaneous provision of Family Reunification (FR) services (see definition) and permanency planning (see definition).

The names, photographs, addresses, recipient status, juvenile records, medical records, psychiatric records and all other information concerning the circumstances or identity of any individual for whom information is

obtained in the course of investigating or administering a child welfare services case. Due to statutory prohibitions, such information may only be released to specific persons or under specific circumstances. See also "Attorney/Client Privileged Information DCFS context," "Juvenile Records," and "Non-confidential Information."

See "Child Health and Disability Prevention (CHDP) Program."

Entrusted with the confidence of another. The assurance that information is not disclosed to unauthorized persons, processes or devices.

In the context of adoption home study procedures, a married person not lawfully separated from his or her spouse may not adopt a child without the consent of the spouse, provided that the spouse is capable of giving that consent, as specified in the Family Code Section 9302. If the applicant is separated and a legal separation has not been granted, a waiver can be signed by the adopting spouse and non-adopting spouse (when the non-adopting spouse is available and capable of providing consent).

Allows children who are federally eligible and residing out of state under the jurisdiction of the Los Angeles County Department of children and Family Services to have Medi-Cal issued in the state where they reside rather than in California, thereby allowing easier access to services.

An activity in which one person or organization seeks the advice or expertise of another.

In the context of the Child Protective Hotline (CPH), a call made by a person who wishes to speak with a social worker but is not ready/willing to report child abuse, neglect or exploitation. See "Reporting Call."

In person, in writing or by telephone between the CSW and the child, parent(s), legal guardian(s), out-of-home caregivers and collateral’s.

See "Hearings."

The decision made by a Judicial Officer to re-schedule or postpone a hearing. The reason for a continuance is recorded by the County Clerk on the minute order.

In the context of protective services child care, the transferring of a family from one child care program for which the family is no longer eligible for subsidized child care, to another child care program for which they continue to be eligible, in an effort to maintain ongoing child care services.

A mutual agreement, usually written, between two or more persons in which each person is obliged to achieve some objective(s) as defined by the terms of such an agreement.

A log which is used to control dates and data.

In the context of a child welfare services case, an activity on the child’s behalf in order to integrate the activities of county staff and third persons or organizations in solving a specific problem(s).

In the context of the emancipation planning progress, the primary multidisciplinary assessment teams responsible for its assessment, case plan, and implementation. The team consists of the youth; care provider; ILP Coordinator (for youths 16 years of age and older); Emancipation Assistant, if appropriate;

and the CSW who will act as the lead member of the Core Team. See "Start Taking Action Responsibly Today (START) Unit."

The attorney whom the court has appointed as the legal representative for a party to a matter before the court. In DCFS child welfare services cases, these attorneys may be County Counsel, counsel appointed by the court from a panel of available attorneys, Children’s Law Center (CLC) of Los Angeles staff or privately retained counsel.

Services given as a form of intervention for the purpose of helping raise self-awareness and understanding, developing insight to problem solving, identifying goals and changing behavior. It may be provided to individuals, couples families and groups. In the context of a child welfare services case, included in the ongoing counseling process is the evaluation of progress in relationship to the case plan. Paid counseling must be provided by a state-licensed professional and may include those intern who are registered with the

Board of Behavioral Science Examiners (BBSE) and receiving clinical supervision from a licensed professional in accordance with BBSE requirements.

The attorney who represents DCFS in all matters brought before the dependency court. See also "Auxiliary Legal Services (ALS)," "Outside Counsel" and "Panel Attorneys."

An officer of the court who advocates the individual needs and best interests of a child, and provides the court with written recommendations. Persons serving as CASAs are generally community volunteers who participate in a training program, after which they are appointed as an officer of the court to advocate on behalf of a child(ren). CASAs are also referred to as Child Advocates or Guardians Ad Litem (GAL).

See "Model Case Format."

See "Model Case Format."

A unit receiving all minute orders from the court as well as alerts regarding transferred cases from the transfer desk in regional offices. Minute orders from pre-disposition court hearings are forwarded directly to Dependency Investigation. Minute orders for post-disposition hearings and alerts from transferred cases are given to the Word Processor primarily assigned to Court Calendar Control.

Supervision of a child by the county welfare department in a county which does not have legal jurisdiction for that child when the child resides with a foster care provider (related or non-related) in that non-jurisdictional county. Courtesy supervision is arranged by means of a formal agreement between the jurisdictional and non-jurisdictional counties.

See "Child Protection Hotline."

See "California Law Enforcement Telecommunication System."

The activities involved in determining the cause of a crisis, offering support to all family members, defusing the situation, and assessing the potential for harm to all family members.

The verbal and written reports mandated by Penal Code Section 11166(a) of the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA). This section requires that mandated reporters, as defined by CANRA (i.e., police or sheriff’s departments, county probation departments and county welfare departments), send cross-reports to one another on all referrals, except as specified, regarding alleged child abuse, neglect or exploitation. For DCFS, this means cross-reporting to the law enforcement agency, District Attorney and welfare department, which has jurisdiction over the location where the alleged incident occurred. It also means that CPH staff will receive and assess cross-reports from law enforcement and other county welfare departments.

In the context of foster care and adoptive placement decisions, the ideas, customs, skills and arts of a given people in a given period.

Refers to the parent with whom the child(ren) reside(s) (i.e., the parent with physical custody or primary physical custody).

See "Child Welfare Services."

See "Child Welfare Services/Case Management System."

In the context of the Adoption Assistance Program (see definition), an allowable cost factor that is covered by referring to the supervision provided to the child by the foster parent. This does not refer to respite care or baby-sitting costs.

DCFS staff assigned to the regions who are responsible for recruiting foster homes, training applicants and completing the foster home evaluation prior to the placement of any DCFS children in the home.

DCFS staff who are responsible for the recruitment, home evaluations, pre & post licensure training of foster family homes, as well as, provision of ongoing support to foster caregivers.

Located at: 3075 Wilshire Blvd. 2^nd Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90010

213-639-4035; FAX: 213-639-1210

See "Healthy Start Liaison."

DCFS staff who facilitate resolution to issues, concerns and complaints.

Located at: 1373 Center Court Dr., Covina, CA 91724

888-889-9800; FAX: 626-859-2296

See "Pro Bono Orthodontia Program."

The Review Agent conducts the Grievance Review Hearing. In accordance with CDSS Manual of Policies and Procedures (MPP) 31-020.511-.513, the Review Agent is a staff or other person not involved in the complaint; neither a co-worker nor a person directly in the chain of supervision of any of the persons involved in the complaint unless the Agent is the Director or Chief Deputy of the county; knowledgeable of the field and capable of objectively reviewing the complaint. The Review Agent for Los Angeles County, DCFS is the Manager, Appeals Section.

See "Children’s Law Center (CLC) of Los Angeles."

A person who is the current or recent caretaker of a child and who has been found by the court to have assumed on a day-to-day basis the role of a parent to the child, fulfilling both the child’s physical and psychological needs for care and affection and who has assumed that role for a substantial period of time. Whether the person seeking de facto parent status is entitled to receive it depends on the particular individual and the unique circumstances of the case. The status of de facto parents does not entitle them to the same rights and responsibilities of parents or guardians. The de facto parent has the right to be present at dependency proceedings, to be represented by counsel and to present evidence. Although they are entitled to counsel, they do not have a right to court-appointed counsel. The court may appoint counsel or the de facto parent may retain private counsel. However, they do not have the right to reunification services, custody, or visitation and do not have the right to appeal a dependency court’s findings regarding such services. Additionally, de facto parent status only applies after disposition and not for placement purposes. A de facto parent is regarded as a non-relative for placement purposes.

See "Vital Records."

The systematic efforts made by DCFS to locate a parent or guardian whose whereabouts are unknown. Due diligence is important to ensure that all legal notice requirements are met and to help ensure child welfare services are provided in accordance with the law. The term also refers to the report.

See "Hearings."

In the context of the Adoption Assistance Program (AAP), a signed agreement between the adoptive parent(s) and the State or county adoption agency wherein AAP benefits will not be effective on the date of adoptive placement but may be initiated at a future date at the family’s request.

In the context of investigating allegations of abuse and/or neglect in out-of-home care, any failure to comply with any provision of the Community Care Facilities Act and/or regulations adopted by DCFS or CDSS CCLD pursuant to the Act.

See "Vital Records."

See "Hearings."

See "Model Case Format."

Any of various nucleic acids that are usually the molecular basis of heredity, and are commonly used in Paternity Testing.

See "Pro Bono Orthodontia Program."

See "Unhealthy Living Conditions."

Part of the California Office of the Attorney General. Among other responsibilities, DOJ maintains the Child Abuse Central Index (CACI) and completes criminal records checks.

See "Children’s Law Center (CLC) of Los Angeles

See "Preponderance of Evidence Model (POEM)."

See "Petition."

See "Hearings."

Services provided by the Regional Centers, which include diagnostic evaluation, coordination or resources such as education, health, welfare, rehabilitation and recreation for persons with developmental disabilities. Additional services include program planning, admission to and discharge from state hospitals, court-ordered evaluations and consultation to other agencies.

In the context of volunteers, an assignment that includes responsibility for face-to-face contact with and supervision of DCFS children.

Any person who has a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activity such as caring for one’s self, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning and working.

Making an assessment of the child’s current needs and evaluating the options available to the child for his or her placement, care and supervision. This includes matching the child’s needs with the caregiver best able to meet those needs.

See "Hearings."

The removal of the clothing of a child. Disrobing is done when the CSW has cause to believe the child is a victim of physical harm (see definition), to ascertain the existence of injuries to areas of the body covered by shoes or clothing. Changing a soiled diaper or soiled clothing is not considered "disrobing." See "Observe," "Rearranging clothing" and "Visual Examination."

See "Department of Justice."

The suspension of DCFS placements into a facility when an investigation indicates problems and/or deficiencies that would be compounded by additional or newly placed children. The Foster Care Quality Assurance Investigation Unit will make such a status decision. Such status may be used when children currently placed in the facility are found not to be at risk and when problems and/or deficiencies may be easily corrected by the licensee within a reasonable time frame. See "Do-Not-Use Status."

Status decision on a placement facility based on substantiated allegations from an investigation conducted by the Out-of-Home Care Evaluation Unit. The Foster Care Quality Assurance Investigation Unit will make such a status decision. When this status decision is made, all children in a specific placement are removed from the facility within a specified time period and no new placements may be made. Once a facility is placed on do-not-use status, it must go through the application process and be re-evaluated before any DCFS children may be placed.

See "Substance Abuse Testing."

See "Substance Abuse Testing."

See "Model Case Format."

See "Emergency Assistance."

See "Emergency Aid Requisition."

The federal health program known in California as the "Child Health and Disability Prevention (CHDP) Program." See "Child Health and Disability Prevention (CHDP) Program."

The Department’s approach, developed in collaboration with the California Community Colleges Foundation, to initiate the emancipation planning process for foster youth at age 14 years.

A home that meets the requirements of the AFDC-FC program and in which an eligible child may be placed.

A legal process of freeing a child from the control of their parents before they reach the age of majority; in California it is 18 years of age. Upon emancipation, the child will be able to do certain things without parental consent, such as:

• Consent to medical treatment
• Apply for a work permit
• Enroll in school or college

A DCFS employee with experience as a DCFS-supervised youth who is a member of the Core Team, when appropriate. See "Core Team."

The provision of specified services to enable youth in out-of-home care age 14 years or older to successfully develop competencies in areas that will enhance their passage to adulthood once jurisdiction or case status has terminated. At a minimum, these services include, but are not limited to:

1. development of basic academic knowledge and skills;
2. planning and achievement of career and/or vocational goals;
3. instruction in daily living skills;
4. instruction in basic survival skills;
5. instruction in interpersonal and social skills; and
6. participation in and completion of ILP or ILP-equivalent package of skill development services.

Emancipation planning services shall be provided to all foster youths age 14 years or older, whether the case plan goal is adoption, family reunification, legal guardianship or long-term foster care. Some form of emancipation planning shall occur even when the youth is physically or mentally unable to benefit from a traditional transitional independent living plan (TILP).

A written agreement signed by the youth and care provider and countersigned by the CSW. It identifies the youth’s perception of his or her needs, services to be provided to meet the identified needs, available resources, time frames and persons responsible for seeing that those services are accessed to meet the identified needs. The contract is updated on a quarterly basis.

A centralized place in each DCFS region/field office for information gathering, information dissemination, and activities coordination for youth-specific, emancipation-related services and resources such as transitional housing, scholarships, job referrals, ILP referrals and information, master emancipation planning calendar, youth event activity transportation coordination and aftercare support.

See "Emergency Medical Consent (EMC) Referral."

See "Emergency Assistance (EA) Program."

The DCFS 66-1, Emergency Aid Requisition (EAR), which is used to generate an office-issued check.

Federally funded program as part of the TANF Block Grant. The program provides funding for children removed in an emergency. In the context of EA:

1. Assistance to Children in Emergency (ACE)

   A statewide tracking system to register and verify an episode and establish the not to exceed (NTE) date of EA recipients.

2. Applicant

   In order of preference, the parent (relative) or when the relative is unable or unwilling to apply on behalf of the child, the applicant may be the county worker (CSW or DPO).

3. Effective Date

   Implementation of the EA program is September 1, 1993.

4. Emergency

   The removal of a child from his or her home who is at risk of abuse, neglect, abandonment or exploitation

5. Episode

   In the context of funding, one emergency up to a maximum of twelve months and limited to one episode per family during a 12-month period which begins at the start of the episode. Under the EA Program, per ACL 95-53, the EA eligibility for Child Welfare Services is not limited to one episode. Any new occurrence leading to a child removal will be eligible for a new episode. The child is a family of one. Additionally, also used to define the end of a period in which a child is under court jurisdiction on a WIC Section 300 petition.

6. Family

   The child is a family of one.

7. Legal Resident Status

   The relative’s or child’s resident status per the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS).

8. List of Emergency Assistance Participants System (LEAPS)

   A statewide tracking system developed to register, verify, and monitor EA recipients. Replaced by ACE in September 1994. However, this system is still used for audit/trail documentation.

9. Presumptive Eligibility (PE)

   The authorization of EA services based on the probability of eligibility. EA services can be authorized as PE during the eligibility determination. When EA services are authorized as PE, the eligibility determination must occur within 90 calendar days of the date of application. The EA application must be authorized within 30 days.

    

10. Shelter Care

    The placement status for children in foster care for the purpose of assessment as part of the child’s case plan, for identification and placement into an appropriate long-term foster care situation. Such status concludes when the SCSW signs the case plan.

11. Social Security Number

    The number assigned to a person by the Social Security Administration (SSA), a MEDs pseudo number obtained through the MEDs system for children, or a temporary number created by the EW for undocumented children only.

12. Welfare Number

A request from a licensed medical practitioner or facility for consent to provide emergency medical care to a child when parental/legal guardian consent is unavailable or has been refused.

An ex prate temporary restraining order issued by the Superior Court following a determination by law enforcement that a child is in immediate danger of abuse by a member of a child’s family or household. An EPO may exclude any parent, guardian or member of a child’s household from the dwelling of the person having the care, custody, and control of the child. EPOs allow children to remain in their home while allegations of child abuse by the restrained parties are investigated and allow the non-offending parent time to seek assistance from Family Law Court. EPOs expire at the close of the second day of judicial business following the day of issuance. EPOs may only be extended by application to the appropriate court. See "Ex Prate Order," "Judicial Business Hours" and "Restraining Order."

In the context of the Child Protection Hotline (CPH), an assessment of an emergency response referral (see definition) conducted by a social worker skilled in emergency response for the purpose of determining whether an in-person investigation is required.

A county welfare department is permitted to claim each completed emergency response protocol form (for DCFS, the CIS 100, Emergency Response Referral) as an ERA case when an emergency response referral (see definition) has been evaluated-out (see definition), with or without a referral to another community agency.

The section of DCFS that performs Emergency Response In-Person Investigations (see definition) on referrals with immediate response times received after normal business hours.

A face-to-face response by an emergency worker skilled in emergency responses for the purpose of determining the potential for the existence of any condition(s) which places the child or any other child in the household at risk and in need of services and which would cause the child to be a person described in Welfare and Institutions Code Section 300(a) through (j).

The documented activities of the emergency response social worker necessary to determine whether or not an in-person investigation is appropriate. In DCFS, this activity has been centralized at the Child Protection Hotline (CPH).

A referral, which alleges child abuse, neglect, or exploitation as, defined by Penal Code Section 11165 et seq. and Division 31 regulations. An emergency response referral does not include inappropriate inquiries such as those regarding aid payments, Medi-Cal cards, etc.

See "Psychotropic Medication."

See "Child Abuse."

See "Family Preservation Program."

See "Unhealthy Living Conditions."

See "Emergency Assistance (EA) Program."

See "Emergency Protective Order."

See "Early Periodic Screening diagnostic and Treatment."

See "Emergency Response Assessment."

See "Emergency Response Command Post."

See "Emancipation Station."

See "Early Step to Emancipation Preparation."

In the context of foster care and adoptive placement decisions, basic groups or divisions of mankind or of a heterogeneous population, as distinguished by customs, characteristics, common history, language, etc.

An emergency response referral (see definition) for which the emergency response protocol (see definition) has been completed by the Child Protection Hotline (CPH) and found to be not in need of an emergency response in-person investigation by a CSW. This terminology includes referrals of abuse, neglect or exploitation over which DCFS has no jurisdiction (e.g., children on military installations).

An order made or granted for the benefit of one party only and without notice to or contestation by any person adversely interested.

A caregiver is exempt from licensure (i.e., not required to be licensed by CDSS CLD) for a child to remain in his or her home when:

1. (s)he is the child’s relative (see definition), legal guardian or conservator; or,
2. s(he) is approved by a licensed adoption agency for the adoptive placement of the child, and the child is legally free for adoption, and the agency is providing supervision of the placement pending finalization of the adoption; or,

    

3. s(he) is selected as the placement for adoption by a birth parent and a petition for adoption has been filed by the prospective adoptive parents and is pending, and final decision on the petition has not been rendered by the court.

Exemption from licensure does not preclude a home from being licensed.

Forcing or coercing a child into performing functions, which are beyond his or her capabilities or capacities, or into illegal or degrading acts. See "sexual exploitation."

Childcare provided before and after school for children in kindergarten through sixth grade.

See "Financial Authorization Document."

In the context of providing child welfare services, parents, adults fulfilling the parental role, guardians, children and others related by ancestry or marriage.

In the context of protective services, childcare, the number of adults and children related by blood, marriage, or adoption who comprise the household in which the child lives. When a child lives with an adult other than a birth or adoptive parent, the child is considered a family of one.

A body made up of DCFS staff who review requests for funds submitted by CSWs on behalf of the children on their caseloads to pay for items and services the children need that cannot be provided through other readily available public or private sources.

A person who regularly provides care, protection and supervision of 12 or fewer children, in his or her own home, for periods of less than 24 hours per day, while the parents or guardians are absent.

A childcare program in a family setting. Family day care homes regularly provide care, protection and supervision of 12 or fewer children, in the provider’s own home, for periods of less than 24 hours per day, while the parents or guardians are absent.

For Protective Services child care purposes, the parent co-payment based on family income and size determined from the fee schedule prepared and issued by the Child Development Division of the California Department of Education (CDE).

Child welfare services provided or arranged for by county welfare department staff in order to maintain the child in his or her own home. Activities are designed to provide time-limited, in-home protective services to prevent or remedy abuse, neglect or exploitation to prevent separation of children from their families. These services may be provided for six months and then may be extended for up to six more months.

An integrated, comprehensive, community-based approach to service delivery that ensures child safety while strengthening and preserving families who are experiencing problems in family functioning characterized by child abuse, neglect or exploitation. The goal of the program is to assure the physical, emotional, social, educational, cultural and spiritual development of children in a safe and nurturing environment. There is a myriad of services and programs available to the children and families being served by Family Preservation. The following is a partial list of services available through FPP.

1. Child Care Services

   See "Child Care Services."

2. Community Family Preservation Network (CFPN)

1. Counseling

   In the Family Preservation Program (FPP), counseling services will be provided by the Community Family Preservation Network (CFPN). See "Counseling."

2. Developmental Services

1. Employment/Training Services

   Services that are provided to prepare families to be financially independent, including remedial education; employment preparation; provision of employment opportunities; referrals to job training programs, such as JTPA, GAIN, Job Corps and Urban League; assisting with support services, such as child care, transportation, and supplies; and, helping families to identify and remediate barriers to employment. In the FPP, the Community Family Preservation Network (CFPN) will provide these services through linkage.

2. Health Care Services

7. Housing Services

8. Lead Community Family Preservation Agency

9. Linkage

10. Multidisciplinary Case Planning Committee (MCPC) Meeting

11. Respite Care (Child) Services

A child welfare services program of time-limited foster care services to prevent or remedy abuse, neglect or exploitation when a child cannot safely remain at home and needs temporary foster care while services are provided to reunite the family. FR services shall not exceed 12 months except for an additional period of up to six months by order of the court. Exceptions include Welfare and Institutions Code Sections 361.5(b) and 361.5(e), which provide for non-reunification.

See "Fast Track to Permanency (FTP) Case."

When the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) meet one or more of the provisions outlined in WIC 361.5(b) and/or 361.5(e) which involve circumstances of great risk to a child and/or the inability of the parent(s) or legal

guardian(s) to benefit from reunification services. If the court orders non-reunification for an FTP case, the child will be provided with permanency planning services only. However, if the court orders family reunification (FR) services for an FTP case, the case will receive concurrent FR services and services designed to achieve an alternate permanent home for the child if FR is unsuccessful. By definition, an FTP case has a low probability of reunification; requires immediate referral for an adoption assessment and increased service activities focused on achieving the child’s permanency alternative. Formerly known as an "Identification of Early Adoption (IDEA) Case."

A man who is either alleged or presumed (see definition) to be a child’s biological father or who has conclusively been found to be the father by way of genetic testing.

1. Alleged father

1. could be or claims to be the father of the child; or
2. is claimed by the birth mother to be the child’s father; or
3. is identified on the child’s birth certificate prior to January 1, 1997 and does not meet the definition of a presumed father.

1. Birth Father

   A man who is either alleged or presumed (see definitions) to be a child’s biological father or who has conclusively been found to be the father by way of genetic testing.

2. Presumed Father

1. he has signed a voluntary declaration of paternity (VDP) or, after January 1, 1997 is identified on the child’s birth certificate;
2. he and the mother are or have been married to each other and the child is born during the marriage or within 300 days after the marriage is terminated;
3. before the child’s birth, he and the child’s birth mother have attempted to marry each other and the child was born during the attempted marriage or within 300 days after the termination of cohabitation;
4. after the child’s birth, he and the child’s birth mother have married or attempted to marry and either with his consent he is named on the child’s birth certificate or he is obligated to pay child support; or
5. he receives the child into his home and openly holds out the child as his birth child.

A report of alleged child abuse, neglect or exploitation which has been transmitted to DCFS by means of a facsimile (fax) machine.

See "Foster Care Payment System."

See "Pro Bono Orthodontia Program."

See "Foster Care Trust Account."

See "Automated Special Payments System."

See "Family Group Decision-Making."

Federal expenditures provided to match proper State expenditures made under approved State Medicaid plans (in California, the Medi-Cal program).

See "Out-of-Home Care Facilities."

See "Federal Financial Participation."

A computer confirmation document produced by APPS that contains foster care payment information, including information about potential overpayments.

In the context of adoption home study procedures, income derived from employment, inheritance, public assistance, etc., to provide for the needs of the adoptive family and child.

The placement of a non-freed child on a foster care basis with approved adoptive applicants who have been certified/licensed as foster parents and who intend to adopt the child if parental rights are terminated.

Contract entered into between DCFS and individual group homes, small family homes, foster family agencies and foster family homes.

The computer system that generates foster care payments to Los Angeles County vendors/providers.

The individual providing temporary or long-term substitute parenting on a 24-hour basis to a child in out-of-home care, including a relative other than the child’s parent. Also known as a "foster caregiver," "out-of-home caregiver," and "out-of-home provider." See also "Foster Parent."

For payment purposes, when a child in foster care placement is the recipient of income from Social Security, Veteran’s Benefits, Railroad Retirement, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), this income must be applied toward the cost of foster care placement. The Department of Children and Family Services becomes the payee for these benefits, and the finance Section, Child Welfare Trust Unit makes the appropriate disbursements. Occasionally funds accumulate in the child’s account over the cost of foster care placement. These funds are the child’s personal property and may be used as a part of the service plan for the child, for needs not met by other resources. In addition to all general approved eligibility requirements, the FCTA worker is responsible for notification to the CSW if the child’s trust account exceeds the $1,000.00 limit. Revenue Enhancement staff works with the caregiver for the documentation of resources available to the child.

See "Foster Care Provider."

A person under 18 years of age (to 21 years of age under specific circumstances) who is being provided 24-hour care and supervision by someone other than a parent/legal guardian in a location other than his or her own home.

See "Out-of-Home Care Facilities."

See "Out-of-Home Care Facilities."

A written authorization from the licensing agency to operate a foster family home (FFH). The license may not be transferred to another person or location.

The person whose home is licensed as a foster family home, small family home, or certified for 24-hour care of children and persons to whom the responsibility for the provision of foster care is delegated by the licensee.

See "Substantiated Referral."

See "Family Preservation Program (FPP)."

See "Fast Track to Permanency (FTP) Case."

Child care that is provided for 35 hours or more per week.

Foster care funding sources, e.g., federal, non-federal and county only.

The Department of Public Social Service computer system to track the flow of participants in the GAIN program.

See "Guardian Ad Litem."

See "Gain Employment Activity and Reporting System."

See "Neglect."

The county foster care financial assistance paid on behalf of children in out-of-home placement who are ineligible for state or federal participation.

See "Out-of-Home Care Facilities."

A one-time- only $50.00 clothing gift certificate issued by Independent Living Program to emancipating youth upon completion of high school.

See "General Relief Ineligible to AFDC-FC."

For the purpose of the adoption home study, procedures initiated on behalf of the applicant, at the applicant’s request, to appeal the Department’s decision when the adoption home study has been denied by DCFS. The Grievance Review Process pamphlet outlines the specific action taken by the Department when the applicant requests a grievance review hearing.

In addition, grievance procedures are in place for foster parents who want to challenge the Department’s decision in regards to their care and supervision of a child(ren). Foster parent’s who want to challenge decisions regarding their license must follow grievance procedures from the State Department of Social Services.

See "Out-of-Home Care Facilities."

See "Legal Guardian."

See "Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)."

Paper copy of a document.

A critical component of CSW case management in which the responsibilities for locating, coordinating and monitoring necessary and appropriate health care services for a DCFS-supervised child rest with that child’s CSW. PHNs and Multidisciplinary Assessment and Service Hub (Hub) personnel may assist CSWs in meeting these responsibilities.

An individual or agency that provides professional medical, dental or mental health services.

See "Family Preservation Program."

A document that is generated on CWS/CMS that contains a summary of a child’s health and education information. The caregiver keeps a current copy of the Passport, along with the health and education forms in a binder provided by DCFS. This binder shall follow the child to all placements. The Passport shall accompany the child to all medical, dental and educational appointments. The Passport binder in its entirety is given to the child upon emancipation.

See "Healthy Start Support Services for Children Act."

Senate Bill 620 (Chapter 759, Statutes of 1991) established Healthy Start the intent of which is to bring together DCFS with public and private human service agencies and school districts to focus their collaborative efforts on the needs of children, youth and families in schools.

1. Adjudication Hearing

1. Appearance Hearing

1. Arraignment/Detention Hearing

1. Contested Hearing

1. Default Hearing

   A hearing occurring when the parents/guardians fail to appear at the detention, pre-resolution conference, or adjudication hearings. Assuming notice is proper, the Court can take jurisdiction at any one of these hearings, using the Jurisdictional/Disposition report as supporting evidence when such has been ordered.

2. Disposition Hearing

1. Jurisdictional Hearing (also known as Adjudication Hearing)

1. Permanency Planning Hearing

1. Status Review Hearing

1. WIC Section 364: A review hearing in which the child is placed under the supervision of the dependency court pursuant to Section 300, and is not removed from the physical custody of his or her parent or legal guardian. The review hearing shall not exceed six months after the date of the original dispositional hearing. The court will consider the necessity of continued jurisdiction.
2. WIC Section 366: A review of a dependent child in foster care reviewed periodically as determined by the court but no less frequently than every six months as calculated from the date of the original dipositional hearing until the WIC Section 366.26 hearing is completed.
3. WIC Section 366.21(e): A review hearing held six months after the initial dispositional hearing. The court shall order the return of the child to the physical custody of his or her parent /legal guardian unless the court finds by a preponderance of the evidence that return of the child would be detrimental to the child’s physical and emotional health and safety.
4. WIC Section 366.21(f): Also known as the "Permanency Planning Hearing," shall be held no later than 12 months from the date of the dispositional hearing at which the child was removed from the care of a parent(s) or guardian(s). The court will determine if a child in out-of-home care is able to return to the home of his or her parent(s) or guardian(s), or whether the court shall order a permanent plan for the child in order to provide him/her with a stable and permanent home.

1. WIC Section 366.22: Also known as the "Permanency Review Hearing," shall occur within 18 months after the date the child was removed from the physical custody of his or her parent or legal guardian. The court shall order the return of the child to the parent or legal guardian unless the court finds by a preponderance of the evidence that return of the child would be detrimental to the child’s physical and emotional health and safety. If the child is not returned to a parent or legal guardian, the court will terminate family reunification services and order a hearing be held pursuant to WIC Section 366.26 to determine whether adoption, guardianship, or long-term foster care is the most appropriate plan for the child.
2. WIC Section 366.3: This hearing is also referred to as a Review of Permanent Plan (RPP). At this hearing the court considers the effectiveness and continued need of the current permanent plan. If the court orders a permanent plan of adoption or legal guardianship, the status of the child is reviewed every six months to ensure that the adoption or guardianship is completed as expeditiously as possible. The status of children in foster care is also reviewed every six months. If adoption is not the identified permanent plan an assessment of adoptability must be completed and included in the court report every 12 months.

1. WIC 321 Rehearing

1. WIC Section 366.26

1. permanently terminate the rights of the parent or parents and order that the child be placed for adoption; or,

1. without permanently terminating parental rights, identify adoption as the goal and order that efforts be made to locate an appropriate adoptive family for the child within a period not to exceed 1