Through the Assessment and the Training, families are exposed to the expectation to work with birth families to maintain a child’s connection:
- Does this mean that I have to meet the birth family?
- Yes, you will meet the birth family.
- Does this mean that, when reunification is the plan, I have to actively work to help the family get their children home?
- Yes, as long as this supports the goal of the family service plan.
- Does this mean that I have to be willing to talk to the birth families about how the child is doing in my home?
- Yes, make sure you understand any limits of discussion with your worker first. Situations change; keep communication ongoing.
- Does this mean that I have to support or help model parenting for birth families during visits and interactions?
- Yes, your role may include teacher and/or mentor.
- Does this mean that I have to find ways to make sure that the children and their families see one another?
- Yes, make sure that the type of contact is approved through the worker. Situations change; keep communication going.
- Does this mean that I have to help the child maintain connections to people who matter to them?
- Yes, make sure the people and the type of contact is approved through the worker.
- Does this mean I have to have the birth family in my home?
- No, but you can if the relationship grows in that direction.
- Does this mean that I have to go to the birth family’s home?
- No, but you can if the relationship grows in that direction.