Partnering With Relatives to Promote Reunification

If you are stepping in to care for a relative's children, you play an important role in the child welfare system by helping to support the family connections that are essential to a child's health and well-being. Because kinship 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 and child and family well-being.