This publication summarizes state laws and statutes regarding placement of children with relatives when they are removed from their home and enter foster care. In order for states to receive federal payments for foster care and adoption assistance, federal law requires that they "consider giving preference to an adult relative over a nonrelated caregiver when determining placement for a child, provided that the relative caregiver meets all relevant state child protection standards." Most states give preference or priority to relative placements in their statutes. This publication discusses definitions of "relative," financial support for relative placement, and adoption by relatives.
Nevada Placement of Children With Relatives, also known as kinship care, refers to the practice of placing children in the care of relatives or close family friends when they cannot remain in the care of their parents for various reasons. This type of placement seeks to maintain family connections and stability for the child while ensuring their safety and well-being. During instances where children are removed from their parents' care due to neglect, abuse, or other concerns, Nevada's child welfare system evaluates potential kinship placements as a priority. This is in alignment with the belief that children fare best when they are placed within their extended family or close community, rather than being placed with unknown individuals or in institutional settings. There are different types of Nevada Placement of Children With Relatives, depending on the specific circumstances and the level of care required: 1. Informal Kinship Care: This type of placement occurs when a relative or family friend takes in a child without the involvement of the child welfare system. Informal kinship care often happens when the parents voluntarily arrange for the child to stay with relatives temporarily or when relatives step in to assist during a family crisis. 2. Kinship Foster Care: In cases where children are removed from their parents' care by the Nevada Division of Child and Family Services (CFS), kinship foster care is considered. This involves placing the child with a relative who becomes a licensed foster parent. These relatives must meet the same requirements, such as background checks, training, and home evaluations, as non-relative foster parents. 3. Permanent Kinship Placement: When it becomes clear that a child cannot safely return to their parents' care, permanent kinship placement may be pursued. This type of placement, achieved through legal processes like guardianship or adoption, allows a relative or family friend to become the permanent caregiver for the child, providing a stable, long-term living arrangement. Nevada Placement of Children With Relatives aims to promote the best interests of children by prioritizing their familial connections and maintaining a sense of normalcy amidst challenging circumstances. By placing children with relatives who are willing and able to provide care, Nevada seeks to ensure continuity, support, and a sense of belonging for vulnerable children.
