The parent-child relationship is one of the most fundamental relationships in a child's life. In most families, the parent-child relationship develops as a result of regular, ongoing interactions and this continuous contact serves as a stabilizing force that promotes children's healthy development, fostering their sense of belonging, security and self-assurance. While this scenario is common for many children, the ongoing relationship is disrupted for children placed in foster care. Children in foster care are presented with considerable challenges. Abuse, neglect and unsuitable home environments are issues faced by children across the United States every day. Foster care provides temporary residential care in another home for children who have been removed from their own home due to physical, emotional or sexual abuse or neglect. The ultimate goal of foster care is for most foster children to return to their parent(s) when the circumstances that led them to be removed from their home have been resolved. When a return to their parents or caretaker is not possible, a permanent home for the child is sought through adoption.

The parent-child relationship is one of the most fundamental relationships in a child's life. In most families, the parent-child relationship develops as a result of regular, ongoing interactions and this continuous contact serves as a stabilizing force that promotes children's healthy development, fostering their sense of belonging, security and self-assurance. While this scenario is common for many children, the ongoing relationship is disrupted for children placed in foster care. Children in foster care are presented with considerable challenges. Abuse, neglect and unsuitable home environments are issues faced by children across the United States every day. Foster care provides temporary residential care in another home for children who have been removed from their own home due to physical, emotional or sexual abuse or neglect. The ultimate goal of foster care is for most foster children to return to their parent(s) when the circumstances that led them to be removed from their home have been resolved. When a return to their parents or caretaker is not possible, a permanent home for the child is sought through adoption.