Numerous studies have shown that many of today's foster children have complex and serious behavioral and mental health problems that put them at risk for negative long-term outcomes. The enormous potential of these young people and the tough challenges faced by foster and kinship parents inspired the development of the KEEP model.
KEEP groups typically include seven to ten foster parents who attend 16 weekly 90-minute sessions that focus on practical, research-based parenting techniques. KEEP groups are led by a facilitator and a co-facilitator (often foster parents) who are trained and supervised to skillfully implement the program staying true to the validated model. KEEP doesn't use a "one size fits all" curriculum. While the facilitators draw from an established protocol manual, they tailor each session to the specific needs, circumstances and priorities of participating parents and their children. Each week, the facilitators gather specific information about the children's current behaviors by telephone. This information is then incorporated into the weekly sessions to make sure the group is both current and relevant.
KEEP groups are designed to be flexible and fun. Snacks are served and childcare is provided. Unlike a classroom lecture format, KEEP groups are interactive and participatory. The groups synthesize the real and current experiences of foster and kinship parents with lessons learned from research about the most effective parenting methods.