DCFS Reunification - Text-Only Version

Allegation System | Rule and Procedure | Decision Trees | Federal and State Law | Clinical Skills and Research | Table of Contents

Search for:

7.20 Casework Activities After Return Home

7.20.1 Activities Related to Health | 7.20.2 Activities Related to Safety | 7.20.3 Activities Related to Education

7.20.1 Activities Related to Health

A follow-up check of the child by the new health care provider shall be conducted no later than 30 days following the return home of the child. Follow-up checks should be conducted quarterly unless the health care provider recommends that they are no longer necessary. These follow-ups consist of checking the child against the baseline information provided by the full medical examination conducted 30 days prior to reunification.

The caseworker shall discuss with the health care provider the results of the first medical examination following reunification and the results of the first quarterly exam. The caseworker shall request all medical reports, including those from subsequent exams until case closure and keep the reports in the case file.

7.20.2 Activities Related to Safety

In addition to the CERAP, a background check using CANTS/LEADS must be done within five days after return home on all adults living in the home, any adults who will be serving in a caregiver role, and adults who are frequent visitors to the home. If a CANTS/LEADS check was completed within 30 days prior to the return home of the child, it need not be repeated, unless a new adult becomes involved with the family, either before or after the child is returned home. If any of the adults listed above will not consent to a CANTS or a LEADS check, the ability of the parent to keep the child safe shall be discussed with the parent. The parent shall be advised that the refusal of those adults to consent to the necessary checks may result in the child's not returning home unless the parent completely severs contact with the person who refuses to authorize the CANTS and LEADS check.

The caseworker shall check periodically (at least monthly) with those professionals and individuals who provide services and support to the parent and child in order to obtain information and observations about the ongoing safety of the child. Such professionals and individuals may include social service providers, school or day care personnel, health care providers, and any other collateral contacts the worker deems appropriate. Prior to such contacts the worker shall have explained to the parent(s) the need for such contacts and have on file the parent(s)' signed consent for the release of any information pertaining to the child which the Department cannot obtain (if the Department no longer retains guardianship).

7.20.3 Activities Related to Education

The caseworker and parent must have contact with the child's new teacher monthly during the first quarter after return home and quarterly thereafter until case closure to discuss the child's progress and whether the teacher has any other observations regarding the child's health, safety and/or well-being while in the care of his or her parents. If the child is of pre-school age, the caseworker shall assist the parent in enrolling the child in a program such as early education or protective day care where indicated. The caseworker must request that the teacher or day care provider notify the caseworker if the child is absent for two consecutive days.

7.20.1 Activities Related to Health | 7.20.2 Activities Related to Safety | 7.20.3 Activities Related to Education