Minimum standards are rules for child care in Texas that are:
- Designed to reduce risk by outlining basic requirements to protect the health, safety, and well-being of children.
- A part of the Texas Administrative Code.
In January 2017, new Minimum Standards were added or changed to promote normalcy.
§749.2605. What are the annual training requirements for caregivers and employees?
Subchapter F, Training and Professional Development Division 6, Annual Training
Caregivers (each foster parent) and Child-Placing Agency Employees must complete two hours of annual training specific to normalcy.
§749.2605. What is the “reasonable and prudent parent standard”?
Subchapter M, Foster Homes:Screenings and Verifications Division 7, Normalcy
The reasonable and prudent parent standard is the standard of care that a parent of reasonable judgment, skill, and caution would use to maintain the health, safety, and best interest of the child and encourage the emotional and social growth and development of the child.
(b) When using the reasonable and prudent parent standard, a foster parent must take into consideration the following when deciding whether a child may participate in normal childhood activities:
- The child’s age and level of maturity.
- The child’s cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development level.
- The child’s behavioral history and ability to safely participate in a proposed activity.
- The child’s overall abilities.
§749.2607. Who makes the decision regarding a foster child’s participation in childhood activities?
Subchapter M, Foster Homes: Screenings and Verifications Division 7, Normalcy
- Except as otherwise provided in the last bullet of this slide, a foster parent makes decisions regarding a child’s participation in childhood activities.
- When making decisions regarding a foster child’s participation in childhood activities, the foster parent must follow the reasonable and prudent parent standard.
- The service plan may not require the prior approval of the parent before the foster parent may consent to a foster child’s participation in childhood activities. However, if the parent provides notice in advance that the child is prohibited from participating in a specific activity, the foster parent must follow the parent’s decision.
