[ramnds]

I know that the time could really vary on how long a foster child is in care, but was wondering if anyone could translate some sw lingo for me. This will be our very first placement, a 6 month old... the SW told us that the child will be with us for 2 to 6 plus months...so what amount of time does that really mean? I am wanting to gather clothing and such now, but I don't want to my a bunch of clothing that will never get used---you know...

[CaddoRose]

Our SW told us that the usual amount of time a child spends in care is about 6 months. That's not a hard fast rule, it's just an estimate on how long. It really depends on why a child is in care and if the parents work their case plan, etc to get the child back. They say 6 months because CPS has to show cause in court as to why child was taken in the first palce. That could be about the 2 month mark. This is a very simplistic answer because every case is different. Your SW's comments can be based on what she knows about the child and situation at this point. It can all change if new info is found that effects the csae plan.

[snc2007]

Your question made me curious so I pulled my placement plans for my first five kids. One was 2-6 mos. and baby went home after 3 weeks. The other four were 6-18 mos. and all went home before six mos. You will get a better idea of what's going to happen with the case after a couple of weeks. Just remember that nobody knows what the judge is going to do.