WELCOME
Everyone is greeted. The family may choose to begin the conference with a family-led prayer, moment of silence, or other means according to their own family traditions.
INTRODUCTIONS
Around the circle, everyone introduces him/herself and his/her relationship to the children.
PURPOSE
The CWS social worker
states his or her reasons for requesting the family conference and explains the harm that has been done to the children.
HOPES & DREAMS FOR THE CHILDREN
The family identifies its hopes and dreams now and in the future for
the children. The family focuses its attention on the children.
FAMILY STRENGTHS
Family strengths are identified by family and professionals.
CONCERNS & LEGAL TIMELINES
Family members and professionals discuss the concerns they have for the
children and for the family. DHS/Family Court timelines and
expectations are identified and clearly defined. Long-term consequences
are discussed.
HELP AND SERVICES
Family, neighborhood, community, and CWS resources are identified. Any
limits to family decision-making are identified and clarified.
PRIVATE FAMILY TIME
Food and drinks are provided. The family takes as much time as they
need to review the information shared. The family may make recommendations regarding the service plan, placement of the children, and visitation plans.
AGREEMENT
When family has completed family private time, family recommendations are discussed with the whole group until an agreement is reached.
CLOSURE
Typically the family will choose the type of closure which may be a family-led prayer, moment of silence, or other means according to their own family customs.
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