Every Kid Needs a Family

Summary

This KIDS COUNT policy report underscores a simple fact about childhood: Family matters. Yet, today in America, 57,000 children are still living in group placements. Readers will learn about limiting the role of residential treatment care to its intended purpose and how state and local leaders can work together to enhance family-oriented services and supports. The end goal? Brighter futures — and loving families — for some of our country’s most vulnerable children.   

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Children Do Best in Families
• What the Data Show
• Equipping Families to Help Children Succeed
• Advancing Appropriate Residential Treatment
• Recommendations
• Conclusion
• Endnotes
• Acknowledgments

Key Takeaway

Kids never outgrow their need for family

Kids need a parental figure to support them throughout all stages of their physical, mental and social development. This single factor — the presence of at least one committed parental figure — can yield powerful benefits that ripple throughout a child’s life.