Child and Family Services Wellbeing and Reform

This course will provide an overview of child welfare history and policy in Canada with a specific focus on child welfare reform. Through discussions, students will recognize the significant complexities in creating meaningful change for Indigenous families and their children within established colonial structures. Students will become familiar with the mandatory requirements for the delivery of child welfare services and programs that provide culturally appropriate services to Indigenous families, children, and communities. Recently updated child welfare legislation will be examined and students will learn how these changes affirm the rights of First Nations, Inuit, and Metis peoples to exercise jurisdiction over child and family services and to provide an opportunity for Indigenous peoples to choose their own solutions for their children and families. Specific issues in child welfare such as overrepresentation, underfunding and intergenerational trauma will be examined. Students will learn about restorative and anti-oppressive practices that are supportive of family preservation and culturally appropriate models of care for Indigenous children, youth, and families involved in the child welfare system. 

Note: Check with the institution regarding start/end dates, prices, and delivery method. These may vary according to program, section, and/or semester.