Update: DCYF sent out a page of tips for parents on how to manage video visits with children of different age groups
A new proclamation from Jay Inslee temporarily cancels the requirement for foster children to have in-person visitation with family or with caseworkers. It also directs DCYF to set up remote visitation by April 1.
DCYF Communication to Foster Parents:
Dear Foster Parents and Caregivers,
Thank you for your selfless commitment and dedication in providing love, nurturing and support to the children in your care during this stressful time. We honor the work you have been doing and continue to do during this crisis period. We want to keep you up to date with changes currently happening with Family Time.
The provision of Family Time has the potential to increase risk of exposure to COVID-19 through in-person contacts among multiple people every day. On March 26, 2020, Gov. Jay Inslee issued a proclamation suspending in-person visitation in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) was directed by the governor to place a hold on in-person visits until further notice and initiate remote visitation by video conference.
DCYF is committed to taking action to safeguard the health of children, parents, caregivers, staff and providers.
During the hold:
Family Time staff will coordinate visits between you and your child(ren) by video conference.
We will continue working on plans for families that do not have the technology to currently participate in visits.
We will continue to provide support to you during this time.
We will email tip sheets to you that explain how you can participate in visits with your child(ren).
We will reevaluate the need for the hold on in-person Family Time, depending on the status of the pandemic.
If you experience challenges or successes using video conferencing, please connect with case worker. Our goal is to continue to provide you with communication as things are changing quickly.
Thank you for your patience and cooperation.