A crucial issue to parents receiving Temporary Assistance when they are entering the job market is the safety and well being of their children.  The information gathered in the Child Development Plan (IM-309C) can be used to create plans for appropriate development leading to school readiness.  This plan will allow a case manager to discuss family arrangements, including type and quality of childcare.  This information is used to create a plan for the parent that could include tasks such as:

• examining the safety and adequacy of current childcare  arrangements, 
• arranging for medical examinations and/or necessary immunizations, 
• attending parent classes, if available and 
• participating in family activities using community resources.

The Child Development Plan (IM-309C) works with the Self-Sufficiency Plan to promote follow through.  The parent can focus on job readiness activities if the child(ren)'s needs are being met.

The plan will address any arrangements needed for all ages of children.  Preschoolers may be in childcare, elementary school age children may need after school care and older children may or may not need supervision.  A plan should be discussed for when children are not in school and when they are ill.  Arrangements should be discussed for children with special needs. 

Parents should be encouraged, if possible, to have two alternative childcare plans.  Having a backup plan will add to the parent's confidence as they are participating in their work activity.  Also, some children may be too old for childcare.  However, there might be other concerns such as troubled behavior in school or physical needs.

Referrals to community resources should be considered to address any concerns.  Resources can help prepare children to enter school "ready to learn", address healthcare issues and provide an opportunity for family activities.  If the question asking if immunizations are up-to-date is marked "no", an appropriate referral would be the local health department or other healthcare provider.

Consider a referral to a C-Star program if the teenager has a substance abuse problem.

It is important that parents are aware this information may accompany a referral when appropriate.  Have the participant read, or the Self-Sufficiency case manager read the disclaimer before signing the Child Development Plan. 

The completed assessment may contain sensitive and confidential information regarding the child and his family.  The form or its contents may not be shared with any person(s) not actively involved in the care and/or treatment of the child.

For further instruction see Forms Manual and Section 0260.010.05 of the Temporary Assistance/Case Management Manual.

Begin using the Child Development Plan (IM-309C) immediately when a supply is received in your office.

• Review this memorandum with appropriate staff.

• Review Child Development Plan (IM-309C) form.

• Begin using the Child Development Plan as soon as the forms are received.

• File Manual pages in the Temporary Assistance/Case Management Manual and the Forms Manual.