Caregiver Experiences with a Trauma-Informed Parenting Program: Examining the Resource Parent Curriculum

Young people in out-of-home care often have trauma histories that negatively impact their development and well-being. As a result, resource parents often face challenges meeting the needs of these youth, which can be addressed by ensuring access to effective trauma-informed training. This qualitative study examined the impacts and helpfulness of a trauma-informed program (Resource Parent Curriculum (RPC)) designed for resource parents who care for a young person involved with child welfare. Twenty resource parents from two child welfare agencies in Ontario, Canada participated in focus groups and interviews after completing the RPC program. Results of a thematic analysis indicated that, through use of relevant materials from the program, resource parents reported a better understanding of trauma reactions in their resource child. This improved understanding influenced their parenting approach when addressing their child’s behaviours through consideration of their underlying needs. The findings can be used to support trauma-informed programming for resource parents within child welfare.