What are some strategies that prioritize first placement of children with a family?

The article emphasizes the critical importance of placing children in foster care with family members or close kin as their first placement. Research shows that these placements provide greater stability, emotional support, and a sense of belonging, leading to better long-term outcomes for the child. The article advocates for policies and practices that prioritize family or kin placements from the outset, highlighting the role of diligent family search efforts and community-based support systems in making these placements successful.