Factors in Stakeholder Cooperation that Enable the Effective Development of Social Skills in Children in Care

Abstract

Aim. The aim is to identify the factors of stakeholder cooperation that enable the effective development of social skills in children in care, based on the experience of social workers at the family homes. Methods. A qualitative research design was chosen for the study, employing a semi-structured interview method. The data obtained were analysed using qualitative content analysis. Results. The study highlighted that the stability of the family home team is crucial for developing social skills, as frequent staff changes hinder trust-based relationships and consistency in their development. The study revealed the importance of close cooperation between family homes and schools: regularly discussing the social skills children possess and lack, strategies for developing them, and sharing responsibilities, successes and challenges. It is also important for family homes to collaborate with the local community to create favourable conditions for children to engage in socially beneficial, educational activities, enabling them to apply and develop their social skills in various interactions and environments. Conclusions. The study revealed that the factors contributing to the effective development of social skills in children in care are close cooperation within the family home team, its cooperation with the schools attended by the children in care, and with the local community. Effective social skills development requires consistency, unity and a proactive attitude from all stakeholders.