Involving Youth in Case Planning

Maintaining open lines of communication and engaging youth in their case planning provides them with the opportunity to be directly involved in decisions that affect and concern their lives. Research suggests that youth participation in the decision-making process can be an effective approach in promoting self-esteem, a greater sense of control, and the acquisition of new skills. The following resources highlight the benefits of youth participation throughout the case-planning processes.

• Involving youth in transition planning
• Involving youth in permanency planning

Empowering Foster Children Age 14 & Older in the Development of Their Own Case Plan & Transition Planning for a Successful Adulthood (PDF - 264 KB)
Advocates for Children and Youth (2015)
Provides an overview of the requirements of the Preventing Sex Trafficking and Strengthening Families Act in Maryland, which requires more youth involvement in case planning. The document also includes promising practices in other States.

How Adolescent Brain Science Supports Youth Engagement in Court Hearings and Case Planning
American Bar Association Center on Children and the Law (2019) 
Explores how brain science confirms that meaningfully involving youth in their own case planning and court hearings is important in child welfare cases and leads to more healthy growth and development for the child. 

Involving Youth in Court: Lessons From States
American Bar Association Center on Children and the Law (2016)
Child Law Practice Today, April
Presents findings from assessments in six States regarding youth involvement in court proceedings. The article also includes policy and practice tips.

Maximizing Youth Engagement in Court Reviews and Case Planning [Webinar] 
Annie E. Casey Foundation (2016) 
Offers a webinar on the Strengthening Families Act and requirements to enhance youth engagement in case planning and court reviews. 

(Back to Top)

Involving youth in transition planning

Caseworker Guide to Transition Planning for Youth (PDF - 3,860 KB)
Washington State Department of Social and Health Services, Children's Administration (2018)
Presents a four four-step plan for caseworkers to work with youth on transitioning from foster care.

Reducing the Risk of Homelessness Through Youth Engagement and Teaming Among Youth Exiting Foster Care (PDF - 1,843 KB) 
Bowman, Gould-Kabler, Abbatiello, & Strong (2019) 
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Children's Bureau 
Discusses the importance of involving youth in foster care in their own transition planning, how to engage youth in decision-making and their role in the transition plan, and how traumatic experiences and adolescent brain development can impact youth communication and relationships with others. 

(Back to Top)