There is lots of talk around the CPS scene and in the courts about "permanency" and "consistency" in regards to the children that are in foster care. We talk about "the child's best interests", who knows best, about being able to help them. But when it comes right down to it, the judges have the final say, based on what information is provided to them.

If the child is lucky, they have someone that advocates for them in court, such as a GAL or CASA, or maybe even the foster parent. Regardless of who it is, that child needs to be heard, and an appropriate plan needs to be established for their future.

Many times, the child has no idea what they want or where they want to be. They are just trying to be a kid, and are still reeling from having their world turned upside down after being taken away from the only family they have ever known.

Research suggests, and real life has verified, that no matter how abused and/or neglected these kids were, there is still a very strong bond to their biological parents. So, it is very hard to go against all that history, and see that the best thing for this child may be to be away from that family and that living situation. We as adults know that what is familiar is not always the best for us, but children don't have that ability yet.

In developing a plan for children in care, the case manager and other members of the team try to decide what is best for the child now and in the long run. Of course, a lot of that is based on what the parents are able and willing to do. If the parents aren't able and willing to participate in services and make an attempt to comply with court orders, how can they be expected to adequately parent their children?

What the team must decide is which of these case plan goals is appropriate: (listed in order of preference)

• Remain with the parent- If services were offered to a family prior to having the child(ren) removed.



• Return to Parent (reunification) - If the child was removed from the home, and the parent participates in services and complies with court orders, they can have their children returned.



• Adoption - If the parents are not able and/or willing to participate in services, or it is not safe to return the child, and there are no blood relatives that will care for the child. Parental rights may be terminated voluntarily or by court order.



• Legal Guardianship - If return to parent and adoption are ruled out as possible outcomes. If there is a home found where a child is wanted, and the child wants to remain there, they may decide on a guardianship. For children that are not adoptable, or don't want to be adopted.



• Long Term Foster Care - If all other permanent planning options are explored and ruled out, this may be an option. In this case, the foster parent assumes no legal responsibility for the child, and the child (if over 12) must consent to the placement.



• Independent Living - Case plans for children 16 and older usually include independent living activities and tasks. Youth who are turning 18 may continue to receive care and services until they turn 21, through the Voluntary Foster Care Placement Agreement for Young Adults. The Independent Living Subsidy Program provides young adults currently in foster care an opportunity to live independently, without in-home supervision. See Casey Family Programs.

Next, we'll get into time frames for case planning.