April 21, 2009

Standard: Sibling Placement

The importance of the sibling relationship must be recognized and respected. Sibling relationships often provide needed continuity and family stability during a child's placement in foster care. The sibling bond is important, separate from the bond between parents and children. Siblings share the same history, heritage and biology, unlike any other relationship. Children placed in out-of-home care suffer many losses. They are separated from parents, possibly other family members, neighbors, friends, schoolmates, teachers and the security of a familiar environment. Separating siblings in foster care or through adoption adds to the emotional burden. Placement of siblings together can serve many purposes such as preservation of the sibling relationship, minimize the impact of separation from family, minimize the impact of the trauma from abuse and neglect, and provide support through developmental changes and growth.