Abuse – The types of abuse include physical, sexual and neglect. The Federal Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act defines child abuse and neglect, at a minimum, as “any recent act or failure on the part of a parent or caretaker which results in death, serious physical or emotional harm, sexual abuse or exploitation; or an act or failure to act which presents an imminent risk of serious harm” to a child.

Adjudicatory Hearing - To address allegations of child abuse or neglect in a petition presented to the court.

Aging Out – When a foster teen turns 18 years old or finishes high school. Some states are extending their time in foster care while in college.

Appeal – When anyone is not satisfied with the judge’s ruling, they can file an appeal to a higher court. Biological parents may appeal when their rights are terminated. Appeals can be a lengthy ordeal.

Biological Parents - The person that gave birth or fathered a child. They are also called bio parents.

Case Assessment and Case plan – It is also called a service plan because it will state what the bio parents need to do before they can get their children back (ex: parenting classes, anger management classes, secure a place to live, job for a period of time, drug test, mental health, etc.). This is the meeting where they talk about what directions the case is going in. You also learn what the bio parents are doing towards their service plan. Foster parents can attend and should if possible. They happen every 6 months at the child welfare office.

Caseworker – Can work for a private agency or the state. They supervise the care of the foster children and the foster homes.

CPS – Child Protective Services

CPS Investigator – They are the caseworkers that investigate any allegations of child abuse.

Court Appointed Special Advocate – Called a CASA worker. They are a court appointed volunteers that work for what is in the best interest of the foster child. In most cases they should have an ongoing relationship with the foster child. They also play an important roll in court hearings and can also be the voice of the foster parent.

More coming in the future.....

More reading:

How to get licensed as a foster parent

Becoming a Foster Parent

Questions To Ask When Called With A Foster Placement Part 1

Questions To Ask When Called With A Foster Placement Part 2