Virginia Administrative Code
Title 22 - SOCIAL SERVICES
Agency 40 - DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
Chapter 141 - LICENSING STANDARDS FOR INDEPENDENT FOSTER HOMES
Part II - General Requirements for Providers
Section 22VAC40-141-60 - Assessment of knowledge, skills and abilities

A. The provider and any assistants left alone with children shall be able to speak, read, and write in English sufficient to understand and carry out the responsibilities and requirements of this chapter to ensure the care, safety, and protection of children.

B. The provider and assistant shall be knowledgeable about and physically and mentally capable of providing the necessary care for children.

C. The provider and assistant shall be able to sustain positive and constructive relationships with children in care; shall relate to children with respect, courtesy, patience and affection; and shall demonstrate an understanding and respect for the families of children in care.

D. The provider and assistant shall be capable of handling emergencies with dependability and good judgment.

E. The provider shall have the financial income to meet the basic needs of the provider's own family as well as to meet the needs of each child in placement if the parents are unable to pay for the child's care.

F. The provider shall have knowledge, skills and abilities in parenting skills and behavior management of children in the age or special needs group of the children to be placed with the provider.

G. The provider and assistant shall respect the confidentiality of the child and his family in accordance with § 63.2-104 of the Code of Virginia.

H. The provider and assistant shall be responsible, of good character and reputation and shall display behavior that demonstrates stability and maturity.

I. The provider shall demonstrate marital stability, if married.

J. The provider shall complete the required Home Study Assessment form provided by the department and submit the completed form with the initial application for licensure.