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Foster Parent Training

Education and training for current and aspiring foster parents

If you’re an aspiring foster parent or current foster parent with The Buckeye Ranch, you can select your category below accordingly and register for any upcoming trainings below! We look forward to learning with you soon!

If you have any questions regarding training, please contact fosterparenttraining@buckeyeranch.org.

  • Online: Trauma Informed Care (T.I.C. 101)
    #991, 923,924,925,928,929,940,943, 945, 993, 995, RR7, RR10, RR5
    class description

    In this foundational workshop, parents will gain a comprehensive understanding of brain development, and the profound impact trauma can have on a child’s developing brain. Based on Bruce Perry’s curriculum, this course will equip caregivers with essential knowledge and practical strategies to support and nurture children who have experienced trauma. Participants will learn how to create a trauma-informed environment that fosters healing and resilience.

    **Check your ITNA and Training Log to see if you need to take this training. **

    Live Synchronous Training Online

    date
    Tuesday, 08/04/2026
    trainer
    Maliaka English, MSW, LSW
    time
    6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    online
    class
    Register
  • Online: LGBTQ
    #927, 940, 945, 950, 991, 995, RR5, RR10, RR6, RR1, RR7
    class description

    Participants will learn definitions and discuss aspects of the LGBTQ culture. They will also learn how to advocate for children in their homes.

    Live Synchronous Training Online

    date
    Thursday, 08/06/2026
    trainer
    Andrea Connell, MSW, LISW-S
    time
    6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    online
    class
    Register
  • Columbus: CPR/FA/AED
    #936, RR1
    class description

    This workshop will include American Red Cross Adult & Pediatric CPR/AED and First Aid. You will need to complete preservice 1 – 7 before attending this training.

    * Please ensure that you complete Preservice 1-7 before attending this training. We kindly ask that you register in advance, as seating is limited.*

    Live In-Person at Columbus Office

    date
    Saturday, 08/08/2026
    trainer
    Cathy Snow, BA
    time
    9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    in-person class (Columbus)
    Register
  • Online: Respite 101
    #989, 991, RR10
    class description

    This training session covers the purpose and process of respite care, including state rules, planning tips, and the difference between alternative and certified respite providers. This training emphasizes the importance of caregiver self-care, placement stability and preparing children for short-term care transitions. Participants learn how respite supports both foster families and youth, helping prevent burnout and disruptions.

    Live Synchronous Training Online

    date
    Thursday, 08/27/2026
    trainer
    Maliaka English, MSW, LSW
    time
    6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    online
    class
    Register
  • Columbus: Car Seat 101
    #940, 945, 950, RR#6
    class description

    Columbus Public Health invites you to learn from our certified care seats experts. This free in – person class everything from birth to booster seats, counterfeit seats and more!

    * This training is Live In-Person at the Columbus Office – 4653 E. Main St., Whitehall, OH 43213

    date
    Wednesday, 09/09/2026
    trainer
    Kristen Frissora Mph, CHES, CPST-I
    time
    6:00 - 8:00 PM
    online
    class
    Register
  • Online: All About Rules
    980, 922, 950, RR11, RR2
    class description

    In this foundational workshop, parents will gain a comprehensive understanding of brain development, and the profound impact trauma can have on a child’s developing brain. Based on Bruce Perry’s curriculum, this course will equip caregivers with essential knowledge and practical strategies to support and nurture children who have experienced trauma.

    **Check your ITNA and Training Log to see if you need to take this training. **

    Live Synchronous Training Online

    date
    Friday, 09/11/2026
    trainer
    Andrea Connell, MSW, LISW-S
    time
    10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    online
    class
    Register
  • Cincinnati: CPR/FA/AED
    936, 945,990, RR1, RR2, RR6
    class description

    This workshop will include American Red Cross Adult & Pediatric CPR/AED and First Aid. You will need to complete preservice 1 – 7 before attending this training.

     * Please ensure that you complete Preservice 1-7 before attending this training. We kindly ask that you register in advance, as seating is limited. *

    Live In-Person at the Cincinnati Office

    You MUST pre-register to attend! Seating is limited!
    date
    Saturday, 09/12/2026
    trainer
    Candace Caudill, BS
    time
    9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    in-person class (Cincinnati / Greater Dayton)
    Register
  • Columbus: CPR/FA/AED
    936, 945,990, RR1, RR2, RR6
    class description

    This workshop will include American Red Cross Adult & Pediatric CPR/AED and First Aid. You will need to complete preservice 1 – 7 before attending this training.

    * Please ensure that you complete Preservice 1-7 before attending this training. We kindly ask that you register in advance, as seating is limited. * 

    Live In-Person at Columbus Office

    You MUST pre-register to attend! Seating is limited!
    date
    Saturday, 09/12/2026
    trainer
    Cathy Snow, BA
    time
    9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    in-person class (Columbus)
    Register
  • Newark: CPR/FA/AED
    936, 945,990, RR1, RR2, RR6
    class description

    This workshop will include American Red Cross Adult & Pediatric CPR/AED and First Aid. You will need to complete preservice 1 – 7 before attending this training.

     * Please ensure that you complete Preservice 1-7 before attending this training. We kindly ask that you register in advance, as seating is limited. *

    Live In-Person at the Newark Office

    You MUST pre-register to attend! Seating is limited!
    date
    Saturday, 09/12/2026
    trainer
    Michelle Costa, LSW
    time
    9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    in-person class (Newark)
    Register
  • Columbus: Normalcy & the Reasonable & Prudent Parent Standard
    923, 922, 949, 950, 980, 991, RR7 RR2, RR11
    class description

    This engaging workshop introduces caregivers to the concept of normalcy and provides a comprehensive understanding of the Reasonable & Prudent Parent Standard (RPPS). Participants will learn how to apply RPPS to create a supportive and nurturing environment for youth, ensuring their well-being and development.

    ** Check your ITNA and Training Log to see if you need to take this training. **

    Live In-Person at Columbus Office

    You MUST pre-register to attend! Seating is limited!
    date
    Saturday, 09/19/2026
    trainer
    Lamar King, BS
    time
    9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    in-person class (Columbus)
    Register
  • Online: Suicide Intervention & Prevention
    995, 929, 945, 983, 985, RR10, RR9, RR6
    class description

    Participants will learn about the definition of suicide, self-harm, suicidal ideations, and various other aspects involved with intervention and prevention.

    date
    Tuesday, 09/22/2026
    trainer
    Zach Schellhause, LPCC-S
    time
    6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    online
    class
    Register
  • Cincinnati: Nutrition Series 1 of 5
    927, 981, 990, 994, RR#5, RR#10
    class description

    Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) is a fun, and hands-on nutrition program designed for foster families and their foster children ages 10 and up. Presented by Tanya North of Central State University, this five-week series includes weekly cooking activities and teaches families how to eat healthily on a budget, plan meals, discuss food safety, read labels, build basic nutrition skills, and enjoy physical activity—while cooking and tasting together during each class.

    *Register once and attend all five sessions to receive credit.*

    Live In-Person at Cincinnati Office

    date
    Saturday, 09/26/2026
    trainer
    Tanya North, Southern Region EFNEP Educator, Central State University Extension
    time
    11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    in-person class (Cincinnati / Greater Dayton)
    Register
  • Online: Adverse Experience
    991,940, RR7, RR10
    class description

    Adverse Childhood Experiences, or ACEs, affect many in the child welfare system. This training equips foster parents to recognize and support children with trauma histories. Participants learn how childhood adversity impacts brain development, behavior, and long-term health. The course provides strategies to foster healing for kids and to insulate against secondary trauma for caregivers.

    date
    Tuesday, 09/29/2026
    trainer
    Candace Caudill
    time
    6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    online
    class
    Register
  • Cincinnati: Nutrition Series: 2 of 5
    927, 981, 990, 994, RR#5, RR#10
    class description

    Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) is a fun, and hands-on nutrition program designed for foster families and their foster children ages 10 and up. Presented by Tanya North of Central State University, this five-week series includes weekly cooking activities and teaches families how to eat healthily on a budget, plan meals, discuss food safety, read labels, build basic nutrition skills, and enjoy physical activity—while cooking and tasting together during each class.

    *Register once and attend all five classes to receive credit.*

    Live In-Person at Cincinnati Office

    date
    Saturday, 10/03/2026
    trainer
    Tanya North, Southern Region EFNEP Educator, Central State University Extension
    time
    11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    in-person class (Cincinnati / Greater Dayton)
    Register
  • Columbus: CPR/FA/AED
    #936, 990,945,RR1, RR2, RR6
    class description

    Live In-Person at Columbus Office.

    This workshop will include American Red Cross Adult & Pediatric CPR/AED and First Aid. You will need to complete preservice 1 – 7 before attending this training. 

    * Please ensure that you complete Preservice 1-7 before attending this training. We kindly ask that you register in advance, as seating is limited. * 

    *This is a live, in-person event at the Columbus office

    You MUST pre-register to attend! Seating is limited!
    date
    Saturday, 10/03/2026
    trainer
    Cathy Snow, BA
    time
    9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    in-person class (Columbus)
    Register
  • Online: Positive Youth Development
    #940, 941, 949, RR5, RR10
    class description

    Youth are a tremendous and often overlooked resource in independent and transitional living programs. This workshop explores how agencies can enhance their services by involving youth meaningfully. Participants will examine strategies for empowering youth through leadership roles, decision-making opportunities, and direct program involvement. The workshop will highlight the mutual benefits of youth engagement—both for agency effectiveness and youth development—while also addressing common barriers and cultural considerations. 

    date
    Tuesday, 10/06/2026
    trainer
    Lamar King, BS
    time
    6:00 - 9:00 PM
    online
    class
    Register
  • Online: Therapeutic Communication
    #980, 922, 950, RR11, RR2
    class description

    Participants will learn an awareness of normal/healthy development and problematic development/behaviors.  They will also learn about sexuality, romantic/platonic relationships, abstinence, contraception, reproduction, rights, and responsibilities. 

    date
    Thursday, 10/08/2026
    trainer
    Trainer: Zach Schellhause, LPCC-S
    time
    6:00 - 9:00 PM
    online
    class
    Register
  • Cincinnati: Nutrition Series – 3 of 5
    927, 981, 990, 994, RR#5, RR#10
    class description

    Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) is a fun, and hands-on nutrition program designed for foster families and their foster children ages 10 and up. Presented by Tanya North of Central State University, this five-week series includes weekly cooking activities and teaches families how to eat healthily on a budget, plan meals, discuss food safety, read labels, build basic nutrition skills, and enjoy physical activity—while cooking and tasting together during each class.

    *Register once and attend all five classes to receive credit.*

    Live In-Person at Cincinnati Office

    date
    Saturday, 10/10/2026
    trainer
    Tanya North, Southern Region EFNEP Educator, Central State University Extension
    time
    11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    in-person class (Cincinnati / Greater Dayton)
    Register
  • CINCINNATI: Nutrition Series: 3 of 5
    927, 981, 990, 994,RR#5, RR#10,
    class description

    *Register once and attend all five sessions to receive credit

    Live In-Person at Cincinnati Office 

    Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) is a fun, and hands-on nutrition program designed for foster families and their foster children ages 10 and up. Presented by Tanya North of Central State University, this five-week series includes weekly cooking activities and teaches families how to eat healthily on a budget, plan meals, discuss food safety, read labels, build basic nutrition skills, and enjoy physical activity—while cooking and tasting together during each class. 

    date
    Saturday, 10/10/2026
    trainer
    Tanya North- Southern Region EFNEP Educator- Central State University Extension
    time
    11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    online
    class
    Register
  • Cincinnati: Nutrition Series – 4 of 5
    927, 981, 990, 994, RR#5, RR#10
    class description

    Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) is a fun, and hands-on nutrition program designed for foster families and their foster children ages 10 and up. Presented by Tanya North of Central State University, this five-week series includes weekly cooking activities and teaches families how to eat healthily on a budget, plan meals, discuss food safety, read labels, build basic nutrition skills, and enjoy physical activity—while cooking and tasting together during each class.

    *Register once and attend all five classes to receive credit.*

    Live In-Person at Cincinnati Office

    date
    Saturday, 10/17/2026
    trainer
    Tanya North, Southern Region EFNEP Educator, Central State University Extension
    time
    11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    in-person class (Cincinnati / Greater Dayton)
    Register
  • Columbus: Domestic Violence & Exposure
    #993,991,RR6, RR7
    class description

    Domestic violence (DV), intimate partner violence (IPV) and teen dating violence (TDV) are all societal problems affecting youth in and out of the foster care system. Many of those in foster care have been exposed to familial violence in their homes, whether it be from adults or in their own dating relationships. This training is to discuss violence and certain aspects that present specifically in familial violence situations. This training will additionally discuss cultural implications and how it relates to violence, and the difficulties that exist in addressing the issue of familial violence. While violence affects all involved, it is particularly traumatic for children and we will discuss how effects may impact those who witness violence.  

    You MUST pre-register to attend! Seating is limited!
    date
    Saturday, 10/17/2026
    trainer
    Hunter Joseph, MSW, LISW-S
    time
    9:00 AM- 12:00 PM
    online
    class
    Register
  • CINCINNATI: Nutrition Series: 4 of 5
    927, 981, 990, 994,RR#5, RR#10,
    class description

    *Register once and attend all five sessions to receive credit

    Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) is a fun, and hands-on nutrition program designed for foster families and their foster children ages 10 and up. Presented by Tanya North of Central State University, this five-week series includes weekly cooking activities and teaches families how to eat healthily on a budget, plan meals, discuss food safety, read labels, build basic nutrition skills, and enjoy physical activity—while cooking and tasting together during each class.

    You MUST pre-register to attend! Seating is limited!
    date
    Saturday, 10/17/2026
    trainer
    Tanya North- Southern Region EFNEP Educator- Central State University Extension
    time
    11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    online
    class
    Register
  • Cincinnati: Nutrition Series – 5 of 5
    927, 981, 990, 994, RR#5, RR#10
    class description

    Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) is a fun, and hands-on nutrition program designed for foster families and their foster children ages 10 and up. Presented by Tanya North of Central State University, this five-week series includes weekly cooking activities and teaches families how to eat healthily on a budget, plan meals, discuss food safety, read labels, build basic nutrition skills, and enjoy physical activity—while cooking and tasting together during each class.

    *Register once and attend all five classes to receive credit.*

    Live In-Person at Cincinnati Office

    date
    Saturday, 10/24/2026
    trainer
    Tanya North, Southern Region EFNEP Educator, Central State University Extension
    time
    11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    in-person class (Cincinnati / Greater Dayton)
    Register
  • CINCINNATI: Nutrition Series: 5 of 5
    927, 981, 990, 994,RR#5, RR#10,
    class description

    *Register once and attend all five sessions to receive credit

    Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) is a fun, and hands-on nutrition program designed for foster families and their foster children ages 10 and up. Presented by Tanya North of Central State University, this five-week series includes weekly cooking activities and teaches families how to eat healthily on a budget, plan meals, discuss food safety, read labels, build basic nutrition skills, and enjoy physical activity—while cooking and tasting together during each class. 

    You MUST pre-register to attend! Seating is limited!
    date
    Saturday, 10/24/2026
    trainer
    Tanya North- Southern Region EFNEP Educator- Central State University Extension
    time
    11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    online
    class
    Register
  • Online: Attachment
    #924, 949, RR7
    class description

    Discover the meteoric impact of fractured or absent attachments on a child’s ability to form connections and chart a course toward healing by identifying strategies that forge healthy attachment bonds. Learn to build trust and nurture a child’s sense of connectedness and belonging, creating a constellation of support. Develop the skill of attunement, become finely tuned to a child’s emotional signals, and honor the powerful gravitational force of their primary family bonds. 

    date
    Thursday, 10/29/2026
    trainer
    Lamar King, BS
    time
    6:00 - 8:00 PM
    online
    class
    Register
  • Online: Preservice #5 Diversity Foundations & the Effects of Caregiving
    #927, 950, 980, 981, 987, 989, 991, 995
    class description

    This course promotes diversity competence and cultural humility, addressing disproportionality and disparity. Participants will examine their implicit biases and learn strategies for fostering an inclusive, equitable environment. It also covers caregiving challenges, including stress management, burnout prevention, and addressing secondary trauma. 

    date
    Wednesday, 08/12/2026
    trainer
    Alyssa William, MSW, LSW
    time
    6:00 PM-9:00 PM
    online
    class
    Register
  • Online: Preservice #1 Orientation & the Basics of Placement
    #922, 991
    class description

    This course provides an overview of the child protection system and the home study process, highlighting the distinctions between Foster Care, Adoption, and Kinship care. Participants will learn how children enter the system and are matched with families, as well as the legal factors influencing these decisions. The course also emphasizes the importance of making informed placement choices and creating a safe, welcoming environment for the child.

    date
    Thursday, 09/10/2026
    trainer
    Myndee Miller, MSW, LSW
    time
    6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    online
    class
    Register
  • Online: Preservice #2 Caregiver Roles, Responsibilities, & Medication Management
    #950, 980, 989, 991, 995
    class description

    This course outlines the caregiver’s role on the child protection team, covering responsibilities such as advocacy, mandated reporting, supporting the Family Case Plan, partnering with families, and meeting the child’s needs. It also addresses medication management, the five “rights” of medication administration, and relevant medication-related rules.

    date
    Monday, 09/14/2026
    trainer
    Andrea Connell, MSW, LISW-S
    time
    6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    online
    class
    Register
  • Online: Preservice #3 Child and Adolescent Development
    #923, 941, 983, 991
    class description

    This course covers finding and applying child development information, emphasizing positive childhood experiences, and nurturing relationships. It introduces the concept of normalcy and the reasonable and prudent parent standard. The course also explores adolescence, including brain development, identity, life skills, and how to support adolescents during this stage.

    date
    Thursday, 09/17/2026
    trainer
    Andrea Connell, MSW, LISW-S
    time
    6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    online
    class
    Register
  • Online: Preservice #4 Trauma Overview & the Impact of Trauma on Children in Care
    #924, 943, 991, 993
    class description

    This course defines trauma and explores its impact on brain development, attachment, and the child protection team. It also examines how caregivers’ own trauma histories may influence their care and emphasizes the skills needed to support children affected by trauma.

    date
    Monday, 09/21/2026
    trainer
    Maliaka English, MSW, LSW
    time
    6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    online
    class
    Register
  • Online: Preservice #5 Diversity Foundations & the Effects of Caregiving
    #927, 950, 980, 981, 987, 989, 991, 995
    class description

    This course promotes diversity competence and cultural humility, addressing disproportionality and disparity. Participants will examine their implicit biases and learn strategies for fostering an inclusive, equitable environment. It also covers caregiving challenges, including stress management, burnout prevention, and addressing secondary trauma.

    date
    Thursday, 09/24/2026
    trainer
    Alyssa Williams, MSW, LSW
    time
    6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    online
    class
    Register
  • Online: Preservice #6 Foundations of Discipline & Permanency
    #925, 926, 940, 948, 991
    class description

    This course teaches effective discipline strategies for children in care, focusing on behavior re-framing, relationship-building, and emotional management. It also covers permanency options, including reunification and adoption, adoption support, and preparing children for permanency.

    date
    Monday, 09/28/2026
    trainer
    Maliaka English, MSW, LSW
    time
    6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    online
    class
    Register
  • Online: Preservice #7 Maintaining the Childs Connections; Partnering with the Primary Family
    #928, 929, 947, 949, 951, 991
    class description

    This course emphasizes the importance of preserving a child’s connections to their primary family and significant adults and peers. Participants will learn about the C.A.R.E. Guide, Ohio’s recommended best practice for co-parenting, and explore strategies to support these crucial relationships. The course also highlights the need for collaboration with the primary family for the child’s well-being and examines child protection through the lens of empathy and the primary family’s perspective. 

    date
    Thursday, 10/01/2026
    trainer
    Alyssa Williams, MSW, LSW
    time
    6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
    online
    class
    Register
  • Online: Preservice #1 Orientation & the Basics of Placement
    #922, 991
    class description

    This course provides an overview of the child protection system and the home study process, highlighting the distinctions between Foster Care, Adoption, and Kinship care. Participants will learn how children enter the system and are matched with families, as well as the legal factors influencing these decisions. The course also emphasizes the importance of making informed placement choices and creating a safe, welcoming environment for the child. 

    date
    Monday, 10/19/2026
    trainer
    Sophia Keller, BA
    time
    6:00 - 9:00 PM
    online
    class
    Register
  • Online: Preservice #2 Caregiver Roles, Responsibilities, & Medication Management
    #950, 980, 989, 991, 995
    class description

    This course outlines the caregiver’s role on the child protection team, covering responsibilities such as advocacy, mandated reporting, supporting the Family Case Plan, partnering with families, and meeting the child’s needs. It also addresses medication management, the five “rights” of medication administration, and relevant medication-related rules. 

    date
    Wednesday, 10/21/2026
    trainer
    Andrea Connell, MSW, LISW-S
    time
    6:00 - 9:00 PM
    online
    class
    Register
  • Online: Preservice #3 Child and Adolescent Development
    #923, 941, 983, 991
    class description

    This course covers finding and applying child development information, emphasizing positive childhood experiences, and nurturing relationships. It introduces the concept of normalcy and the reasonable and prudent parent standard. The course also explores adolescence, including brain development, identity, life skills, and how to support adolescents during this stage. 

    date
    Monday, 10/26/2026
    trainer
    Andrea Connell, MSW, LISW-S
    time
    6:00 - 9:00 PM
    online
    class
    Register
  • Online: Preservice #4 Trauma Overview & the Impact of Trauma on Children in Care
    #924, 943, 991, 993
    class description
    date
    Wednesday, 10/28/2026
    trainer
    Andrea Connell, MSW, LISW-S
    time
    6:00 - 9:00 PM
    online
    class
    Register
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