Caregiver’s Report to the Court: Using Your Caregiver Voice

Caregivers are an essential part of a child or youth’s support team, and their observations provide valuable insight into a child’s daily life, needs, progress, and well-being. The Caregiver’s Report to the Court gives foster parents and kinship caregivers an opportunity to share important information directly with the court during dependency proceedings.

This resource explains how caregivers can document their experiences, highlight a child’s strengths and challenges, share updates about appointments, education, behaviors, relationships, and services, and ensure their voice is included in decisions affecting the child’s future. Judges and commissioners value hearing directly from caregivers because they provide firsthand knowledge of the child’s day-to-day experiences.

Caregivers should work with the child’s caseworker to understand when and how to submit the report. DCYF recommends submitting the report before the scheduled court hearing so there is time for the court and parties to review the information. Support is also available through caregiver coaching and mentor programs for those who would like assistance completing the form.

Access the Caregiver’s Report to the Court Template – Click here

This resource helps caregivers ensure their voice is heard and provides the court with important information about the child’s daily experiences, progress, and ongoing needs.