Genogram - A genogram is a diagram similar to a family tree and depicts the family across generations. Genograms list additions and losses in a family, communication and relationship patterns, and other important events. The genogram assesses the family at a certain point in time and is used to monitor or evaluate change over weeks or months. Examples are available in Appendix 3B-1, 3B-2, and 3B-3.
Eco-map - An eco-map is a visual representation of the family and the larger world in which the family resides. Symbols are used to depict the nature of relationships between the family and other community systems. These community systems include but are certainly not limited to school, the physical and mental health systems, law enforcement, work, spiritual and other community supports, including relative/non-related kin and friends. Eco-maps also show the flow of energy, either positive or negative, between community systems and the family. The information learned from the process of constructing an eco-map can help the family identify resources in persons and systems. An example is provided in Appendix 3C.
Social history –
A social history is written in chronological order and includes a narrative summary of the family's history. It includes identifying information, a summary of the presenting problem, background information, and medical history. When a child is in an out-of-home placement, the Child Welfare Case Management Provider, shall gather information for the social history starting at the time of the referral. If there is knowledge of a prior history of out of home placement, the CWCMP shall contact DCF to request the information be provided to them. The CWCMP shall complete a narrative social history within 20 working days following the first permanency hearing where it is determined that reintegration is no longer viable. The social history shall be updated at least semiannually, or when there are significant changes in the child’s life, such as a change in placement, sibling separation, substantiated abuse (as a victim or perpetrator), or death of a family member.
The social history includes a review of the child’s case records and medical, educational, social and developmental reports. Interviews with the child, previous and current foster families, other professionals, individuals who have significant relationships with the child, and family members assists the worker with gathering information that is accurate, complete and up to date. A good social history provides the foundation for decision making and provision of services that best meets the needs of the child. The document shall be shared when the child becomes an adult and requests information from their records. An outline for a complete social history is provided in PPS 3114.
Time line - A time line is a chronological representation or exhibit of key events within a particular historical period. These events often have connections to developmental stages in a child's life. They also impact family functioning and can highlight periods of stress or well-being. A time line can be used to help assess family strengths and needs in order to develop and evaluate case plans. Appendix 3E provides an example.
Medical Checklist - A Medical Checklist is a tool used to ensure a child's medical needs are being taken care of on an ongoing basis. Medical issues covered by the Kan-Be-Healthy screening are documented on the Medical Checklist. Additional areas that shall be considered when documenting the health needs of a child at the case planning conference include but are not limited to eye and dental examinations and screening for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. An example is provided in Appendix 3D.
CWCMP Assessment Tools – CWCMP use specific tools to assess the child’s trauma history and functioning on an on-going basis. The results of these assessments are reported in Section 2 of the Permanency Plan (PPS 3051). See PPM 5030 for a list of the assessments and screens required.