Kin-First Approaches in Child Welfare

Government agencies can never replace the critical role of extended family and community in a child's life. Increasingly, State and local child welfare agencies are recognizing this by using comprehensive approaches that prioritize family ties and support extended families in working together in the best interests of their children. This orientation has been described as creating a "kin-first culture," where values, policy, and practice align to ensure children remain connected to family whenever possible. 

This issue brief describes how child welfare agencies can move toward a holistic kin-first approach that honors the central importance of family in children's lives. It provides an overview of the foundational principles and benefits of a kin-first approach and describes system changes that support this approach. The brief includes examples of how specific jurisdictions have moved in this direction and resources for further information.

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