How long does it take for a parent to reunify with their child?

The time parents have to reunify with their child is limited. Depending on the circumstances, a parent might have six months or less to show the court some progress. So getting started in services right away is imperative.

When does a court appoint a kin as a permanent guardian?

A court also may appoint a relative or other kin as a permanent guardian when that person has been caring for the child as a foster parent. Kinship guardianship can be a permanency option for a child in the legal custody of a department of social services when reunification with the child’s parents or permanency through adoption is not feasible.

Why is reunification important in the foster care system?

Reunification—which means getting the family safely back together—is almost always the first goal and in your child’s best interest. Being involved with the foster care system can give your family support and a chance to be stronger than before.

When to use Guardianship as a permanency option?

Guardianship can be particularly suited to the permanency needs of an older child under the following circumstances: The child has been in a stable placement with the caregiver for a period of time. The child is unwilling to be adopted. Parental rights cannot be terminated.

What do you need to know about family reunification?

Explores the findings from a family reunification model pilot study and the experiences of the staff and parents who participated. Provides an overview of family reunification, the specific needs of children for healthy growth and development, and four steps to promote and maintain family reunification.

When is a motion to terminate court ordered reunification services not required?

A motion to terminate court-ordered reunification services shall not be required at the hearing set pursuant to subdivision (e) of Section 366.21 if the court finds by clear and convincing evidence one of the following: (A) That the child was removed initially under subdivision (g) of Section 300 and the whereabouts of the parent are still unknown.

How to reunify a family in child welfare?

Services should be tailored to each family’s circumstances and should address the issue (s) that brought the child and family into the child welfare system. The following resources offer an array of practices and strategies that support family reunification efforts in child welfare, including State and local examples.