(a) It is the intent of the Legislature that standards be developed to address the specific needs of very young children, from birth to six years of age, experiencing the trauma of separation from their family who must be placed in out-of-home care. These standards shall provide normative guidelines differentiated by the needs specific to infants from birth to two years of age, toddlers from two years of age to four years of age, and preschool from four years of age to six years of age and shall reflect the needs of all children for a family-like setting that provides culturally appropriate nurturing, and safety.
(b) The department shall assess the needs of young children and adopt standards in consultation with interested parties that shall include the following:
(1) A representative of a public interest law firm specializing in children’s issues.
(2) A representative of an advocacy group representing children with developmental disabilities.
(3) A representative of the California Association of Children’s Homes.
(4) A representative of the Association for Minority Adolescents in Residential Care Homes.
(5) A representative of the California Association of Services for Children.
(6) A representative of the County Welfare Directors Association.
(7) A representative of the National Association of Social Workers.
(8) A developmental psychologist specializing in children in shelter care.
(9) A psychiatrist specializing in the emotional development of young children.
(10) A pediatrician.
(11) An expert in family reunification issues.
(12) A specialist in the treatment of alcohol and other drug abuse.
(13) A representative of the Child Welfare League of America.
(14) A representative of the State Department of Developmental Services.
(15) A representative of the Association of Regional Center Agencies.
(c) The department shall develop standards that include, but are not limited to, all of the following:
(1) The elements of a safe nurturing environment that support all aspects of a child’s development and provide opportunities to establish primary, trusting relationships with a carefully limited number of adults.
(2) Psychosocial needs, primary care, parental visits, developmental support, trauma recovery, appropriate discipline, and flexibility in daily activities.
(3) Guidelines for services to be provided pursuant to a case plan.
(4) To the maximum extent feasible, the requirement that significant placement changes be minimized, and that they be carefully planned and implemented.
(d) The standards shall be incorporated to the extent feasible into provider program statements required pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 11467.
(Amended by Stats. 2017, Ch. 732, Sec. 86. (AB 404) Effective January 1, 2018.)