[AmahMama]

Just because a relative has passed a home study does not mean they will really, truly, actually take the child (I know that sounds wierd, but this has been my experience). The permancy hearing is just where the dept tells the judge what they feel is in the best interest of the child and the judge either agrees or disagrees. That's kind of a simplistic way to put it - but I've only been suprised by them 2x in 10 years. Twice the judge returned children to home against dept recommendations. Doesn't sound like this is even on the table tho'. Relatives are a fact of life for children...try to be as kind and casual about meeting them without going overboard and at 2 the child will probably take it in better stride than you LOL! Just like any other relatives... Speak, introduce yourselves (first names only), don't answer personal questions, keep any info on child general (i.e. he has 3 new molars, we are working on potty training, he has 7 new words, etc). Don't ignore but don't make big overatures. Keep it all low key and relax.... today is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday!!!

It is the dept's place to recommend changes in placement and it is possible that the judge may move the child if he believes that you would stand in the way of or get to attached to facilitate RU. I don't know that this would be something that would even be addressed at a permancy hearing. Ask your cw or gal or casa - whichever you have in your area.

Good luck and God Bless