Learning

The DCFS online Learning And Development Center (LDC) is the entry point for training-related information and resources for foster and adoptive caregivers, child welfare professionals, and the public.

Individuals can use the  Learning And Development Center (LDC) to:

See training news and general information;

• Check available trainings
• View/print training transcripts
• Register and take online courses
• Download course materials to use in class or to access after training.

To access the LDC at any time at Home| Illinois Department of Children and Family Services Portal.

These online courses may have special relevance for adoptive and guardianship families:

Watch these four short videos for information about available post-adoption resources:

• Connecting to Services
• Preventive Resources
• School Concerns
• Your SMART Start

Please check out the webinars presented by the Center for Adoption Support and Education (CASE), and highly recommended by parents. https://adoptionsupport.org/syfwebinars/

This state-of-the art program is designed to provide group instruction to foster and adoptive parents to build the skills necessary to meet the needs of youth who have moderate to serious emotional and behavioral health challenges. To register for upcoming trainings follow this link.

A trauma-informed program for caregivers and professionals who work with children who "come from hard places." TBRI® is designed to meet the basic relationship and developmental needs of these children, as well as the needs of the adults who seek to help them heal, learn, and grow.

• View Online classes
  
• View In person classes with Lutheran Social Services of Illinois

An Adoption Informed Approach to Serving Families is a one-hour, self-paced training designed for professionals who serve Illinois children and families in school, healthcare and mental health settings. The training will help providers recognize concerns that could be adoption-related and develop an adoption-informed response that leads to better outcomes. The information presented will increase awareness for the need of a continuum of post-adopt/guardianship services and where to get them.