Guide for Incarcerated Parents Who Have Children in the Child Welfare System

Guide for Incarcerated Parents with Children in the Child Welfare System CoverThe purpose of this guide from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation, and the Administration for Children and Families, in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Prisons, is to help parents involved in the criminal justice system work with the child welfare system to stay in touch with their children and stay involved in decisions about their children’s well-being.

The guide also includes important information on steps required by the child welfare system for reunification, or having children return home to their family after foster care.

Child welfare and social work professionals may also benefit from this guide to inform work with incarcerated parents, their children, and the caregivers.

View the guide (PDF)