How should kinship or relative placements be addressed?

• A. Isolate child from kin network
• B. Evaluate suitability, provide support, ensure compliance with placement standards, and maintain relationship with the child’s kin network
• C. Replace with non-kin placement only
• D. Ignore kin networks

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that kinship or relative placements should be handled by recognizing kin as a first consideration, while still ensuring safety and meeting all regulatory requirements. This means actively evaluating whether relatives can provide a safe, stable home for the child, offering the necessary supports to help them meet caregiving needs (training, resources, services), and ensuring the placement complies with placement standards and licensing rules. At the same time, the plan should keep the child connected to their kin network, maintaining ongoing relationships to support the child’s sense of identity, belonging, and emotional well-being. Preserving those connections often leads to greater stability and can aid in smoother permanency outcomes.

Isolating the child from their kin network disrupts important ties and can increase trauma. Relying only on non-kin placements may overlook a strong, suitable option that supports the child’s best interests. Ignoring kin networks is not appropriate and goes against best practices and policy requirements.