Here are a few suggestions, both for birth parents who wish to be reunited with their child, and for foster parents who hope to adopt.
First, show yourself to be a committed and caring parent. If you are a birth parent, follow your reunification plan carefully. Correct the reasons given for the loss of your child. Be on time for your appointments. Turn your home and life around.
As a foster parent, follow the child welfare policies. Keep a daily journal. Include everyday happenings, as well as school achievements and medical appointments. Preparing a Life Book for your foster child is evidence of your concern and commitment.
Second, get along with the case manager and the CASA/GAL. This is equally important for both birth and foster parents. If they don’t contact you, call them and report. Having your own opinion is important, but do not badmouth the other parties. Search for areas of agreement and build on those. If the birth mother and foster parents get along, consider a cooperative adoption.
Third, marshal a wider body of support. Reach out to your extended family and friends, your church family, and the child’s teacher and physician. If you are a foster parent, seek counsel and support from your fellow foster parents.
Finally, if serious issues remain and a court decision seems necessary, find and hire a knowledgeable attorney. You need a compelling voice to help present your information and wishes before the judge. Don’t assume everything will work out the way you think it should. Your child is too important.