Promoting Reunification as a Kin Caregiver
As a kin caregiver, you play an important role in the child welfare system by helping support the family connections that are essential to a child's health and well-being. Because kin caregivers must navigate the often-blurred line between being a family member and assuming responsibility for a relative's children, misunderstandings may arise as they strive to adhere to court orders and agency rules. Partnerships between caregivers and parents that include clear goals and expectations are essential for promoting family reunification.
Child Welfare Information Gateway conducted interviews with parents and relative caregivers involved in kinship care arrangements. This factsheet shares their experiences and advice to highlight the dynamics and steps that can support reunification. Interviewees' names have been changed to protect their identities.
Series Title: Factsheets for Families
Author(s): Child Welfare Information Gateway
Year Published: 2025
File Size: 440 KB
As a kin caregiver, you play an important role in the child welfare system by helping support the family connections that are essential to a child's health and well-being. Because kin caregivers must navigate the often-blurred line between being a family member and assuming responsibility for a relative's children, misunderstandings may arise as they strive to adhere to court orders and agency rules. Partnerships between caregivers and parents that include clear goals and expectations are essential for promoting family reunification.
Child Welfare Information Gateway conducted interviews with parents and relative caregivers involved in kinship care arrangements. This factsheet shares their experiences and advice to highlight the dynamics and steps that can support reunification. Interviewees' names have been changed to protect their identities.
This publication is also available in Spanish.
Acknowledgment(s): This product was developed with assistance from Alison Caliendo of Foster Kinship, Las Vegas, NV, and Jaia Peterson Lent of Generations United, Washington, DC, who helped connect us with the featured kin caregivers and parents.