Decision Making

This tip sheet offers practical guidance to support thoughtful, consistent, and child‑centered decision‑making in child welfare and permanency planning. It highlights key considerations for weighing risk and protective factors, incorporating family and youth voice, and using data and professional judgment to guide decisions. Designed for practitioners and supervisors, the resource promotes transparent, informed decision‑making processes that strengthen safety, well‑being, and long‑term permanency outcomes for children and families.