This report was published by the Annie E. Casey Foundation.

HERE’S HOW THE AUTHORS DESCRIBE THIS REPORT:

Young people in foster care often understand why they entered the system. They usually can make sense of the complexities that prevented them from remaining in their homes. But what may be hardest for these young people to understand is the lack of everyday experiences and relationships with families and friends readily available to peers who aren’t in foster care ‘ opportunities that are frequently difficult to ensure because of requirements imposed by child welfare systems.

This report highlights the importance of normalcy to the overall healthy development of young people in foster care; how young people view normalcy and foster care ‘ what they wish for, the barriers they face and their recommendations; suggestions for how to leverage the Strengthening Families Act for significant improvements in child welfare systems, creating a more supportive and normal environment for all young people; and strategies from the field that can serve as examples.