May is National Foster Care Month! With many children and youth facing increased isolation over the past year, it is more important than ever for communities to work together to establish meaningful connections for children and youth in care. Learn more. #NFCM2021 #FosterCareMonth https://www.childwelfare.gov/fostercaremonth

There are over 423,000 children and youth in foster care. Over half have a case plan goal of reunification with their parents or primary caregiver. 

Juvenile and family court systems can influence whether children are reunified with their families or reenter care.

Meaningful and appropriate involvement of youth in their own court hearings and case planning greatly benefits all participants and leads to more favorable outcomes for families.

Competent legal representation for parents is associated with the achievement of timely reunification.

A strong support system of professionals and family can help young people address the challenges they face during their transition to adulthood. Virtual engagement tools can be used to establish and maintain that support system by enhancing connectedness for all involved.

In addition to supporting brain development, encouraging young people to be active participants in planning their own lives supports the development of leadership skills, improves self-esteem, and helps form critical social connections.