PRINCIPLES OF FAMILY-CENTERED CARE FOR CHILDREN

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The foundation of family-centered care is the partnership between families and professionals. Key to this partnership are the following principles:

· Families and professionals work together in the best interest of the child and the family. As the child grows, s/he assumes a partnership role.

· Everyone respects the skills and expertise brought to the relationship.

· Trust is acknowledged as fundamental.

· Communication and information sharing are open and objective.

· Participants make decisions together.

· There is a willingness to negotiate. Based on this partnership, family-centered care:

Acknowledges the family as the constant in a child’s life.
Builds on family strengths.
Supports the child in learning about and participating in his/her care and decision-making.
Honors cultural diversity and family traditions.
Recognizes the importance of community-based services.
Promotes an individual and developmental approach.
Encourages family-to-family and peer support.
Supports youth as they transition to adulthood.
Develops policies, practices, and systems that are family-friendly and family-centered in all settings.
Celebrates successes.

Sources: National Center for Family-Centered Care. Family-Centered Care for Children with Special Health Care Needs. (1989). Bethesda, MD: Association for the Care of Children’s Health. Bishop, Woll and Arango (1993). Family/Professional Collaboration for Children with Special Health Care Needs and their Families. Burlington, VT: University of Vermont, Department of Social Work. Family-Centered Care Projects 1 and 2 (2002-2004). Bishop, Woll, Arango. Algodones, NM; Algodones Associates