[Momshi]

How long after the judge rules the children are to go back to bio mother is it before the time they actually leave us? We are in Santa Rosa county, if that makes any difference.

The children were taken from their home in June and their is a court date in Jan. If the judge rules ** worked her case plan and they can go back, do we/the kids, get any warning or time to prepare? Thank you.

[alysonk]

It varies. If the children have been having regular visitation and the mom is in stable housing with no other adults who need to be checked out, they could be returned that day. If the children haven't seen much of her (for example if she has been in rehab), they will often offer a transition time (usually no more than two to three weeks max). During this time the children will visit more and more, have one or two weekend visits, and then be reunified. It is very early to make a prediction though, if court isn't until January. Moms sometimes do several turn arounds (complying, giving up, starting over, slipping, etc) in that amount of time.
Just love them - one day at a time!

[Momshi]

Alysonk, that is a great reply. Thank you so much!

[Angie1967]

I had my nephew for two years it was one month between the time the judge ruled and he was returned. She'd had week-end visits for about a month prior to his return. You try to prepare yourself, but it's still hard. I talked to my nephew about going home to his Mom but he was too young to understand. The day we dropped him off he told me "I'll see you Sunday". It was heartbreaking to say the least. All you can do is talk to the kids, tell them you love them and want them but it's time to go home. Live each day with them as if it's their last day with you, celebrate the little things, and make it as happy a time for you and them as possible. Memories last a lifetime and the happy times are the ones you'll need to get you through on those tough times ahead. God luck my prayers are with you!