This page includes resources and information for parents who have involvement with Child Protective Services (CPS) and are working with Child Welfare Professionals. If you have questions or need additional assistance, please reach out to our Resource Team at 800-762-8063 or info@wifamilyconnectionscenter.org.

  • Information for Parents at the Start of a CPS Initial Assessment
    Essential information for parents regarding the Child Protective Services (CPS) Initial Assessment process, including what you can expect will happen, an overview of CPS’s legal authority, outcomes, resources, and much more.
  • An Introduction to Child Welfare For Parents, By Parents
    Information from parents who were at some point engaged with the State of Wisconsin Child Welfare System within their local communities. The topics listed will provide parents with basic details on specific areas that may arise as they engage with child welfare professionals.
  • Understanding the Language of Child Welfare: A Resource for Parents
    An overview of Wisconsin’s child welfare system, its purpose, processes, and key terms.
  • Planning Ahead: Working Together for Successful Interactions
    Navigating the complexities of out-of-home care can be challenging, but building a strong, supportive relationship between caregivers and birth parents can make all the difference. This tip sheet offers practical advice and heartfelt insights to help you create a nurturing environment for children in your care.
  • Reunification from Foster Care: A Guide for Parents
    This factsheet from the Child Welfare Information Gateway focuses on the steps that will help parents navigate the process of reunifying with their children after being in foster care. It introduces the team that will work with them throughout the process and discusses their rights as parents. It explains how they will work with their caseworker to make a plan for reunification and describes how partnering with their child’s resource parent can help bring them and their family together again.