Before becoming a Kinship Caregiver, it is important for you to understand many of the background facts so that you can make an informed decision about how to best help the child you are caring for.

• The Division of Child and Family Services (DCFS) will consider placing a child with the child’s non-offending biological parent first, before other family members.

• If you are asked to care for a child during a protective services investigation this does not guarantee that the child will remain with you. If staying with another family is best for the child, then the child will be moved.

• All relatives who come forward will be considered as possible caregivers.

• A kinship home study will be completed for the family that the child is to stay with.

• The home will need to pass a health and safety inspection.

• A background check is required for any person in the household 18 years or older.

• Relatives are involved in making decisions about the needs of the child, including placement.

• The Juvenile Court Judge will be made aware that placement with a relative is an option.

• The goal will be for the child to return to their parents’ care. DCFS expects Kinship Caregivers to help work towards this goal.

• A Kinship Caregiver may be asked to consider permanent custody and guardianship or adoption of the child if the child’s parents are unable or unwilling to make the necessary changes.