[breakspencils]

I was told by the case worker and GAL that we should be there, as foster parents. I was told by the mediator that we don't have to be there, we can just be available by phone. hmmmm. will they even call? oh, and we were told that we might not be able to stay for the entire meeting if the mother didn't want us there. well can i ask for her not to be there during my part? ugh.

[gdaisy]

I have been to MANY planning meetings. If I could be there I was there. The meetings always provided alot of information that I would have never known if I hadn't gone! However, if I couldn't be there in person I was always there via phone call. This is just a first step to the loonnnng process.

[breakspencils]

Well, supposedly they plan to inform the family that their recommendation will be adoption at this point and we're supposed to be prepared to answer whether we would adopt them or not. We've been told that it will be an ugly meeting.

[chloroxsis]

Go! If you can do anything to make a relationship with the parents, try. It will be better for the kids down the road. And I suspect they will need to know info that you know and only you know. If you can go! If you can't, call in for the entire meeting.

[LovingAunt]

Go to the meeting. I was told by my CW that some times they make plans and sometimes it includes the foster parents but if you are not there you cant voice your concerns.