kontaktfamilie

A kontaktfamilie, a German term, translates to "contact family" and refers to a specific type of support system for children in foster care or other out-of-home placements. Unlike a traditional foster family that provides full-time care, a kontaktfamilie offers regular, scheduled visits and interaction with a child who is living elsewhere. This can include biological parents, grandparents, or other significant individuals.

The primary purpose of a kontaktfamilie is to maintain and strengthen the child's existing relationships. This is particularly important for children who may have been removed from their biological families due to safety concerns, but where maintaining contact is deemed beneficial for the child's well-being and identity development. The kontaktfamilie acts as a facilitator, providing a safe and neutral environment for these meetings to take place.

These families are typically vetted and trained by child welfare agencies. They do not make decisions about the child's placement or care, but rather ensure that the time spent together is positive and constructive. The frequency and duration of visits are usually determined by the relevant authorities, often in consultation with the child and the biological family. The goal is to offer a consistent and supportive presence that bridges the gap between the child's current living situation and their past, promoting a sense of continuity and belonging.