Once a child is returned to their birth family, they are not required to keep in contact with the foster family but foster families that have invested in a relationship with the birth family have a much higher chance of ongoing contact with the child they have cared for.  Many times, we have seen the birth family include foster families for birthdays, special events, babysitting needs, etc. It is really valuable to co-parent with the birth family while you are fostering for many reasons; the opportunity to maintain an ongoing relationship after reunification is just one.

Thank you for your great question! If you have questions, send them to #youaskedfa or Kim@fosteraz.com