The Future of Kinship Care: What Could Make this Ideal More Attainable for Families?

Authors

Dani Scudder, Loyola University Chicago School of Law

Document Type

Article

Abstract

In recent years, there has been a radical shift by child protective agencies to look towards extended family before placing a child in foster care.¹ Placing children with family or fictive kin, people who are not related but still important to that child's life, is called kinship care.² This shift is a result of increased research surrounding the emotional and physical benefits of kinship care for displaced youth.³ Although professionals agree that placing children with relatives reduces trauma and enhances outcomes, the ability of relatives to care for their extended family members is hindered by financial and practical restraints.⁴ This article will acknowledge the policy gaps in supporting kinship caregivers and then appraise Illinois regulation to determine where improvements can be made in supporting these families.

Recommended Citation

Dani Scudder, The Future of Kinship Care: What Could Make this Ideal More Attainable for Families?, 29 Pub. Interest L. Rptr. 321 (2025).
Available at: https://lawecommons.luc.edu/pilr/vol29/iss2/11