Scorecard Terms

Fictive Kinship – relationships that are not based on blood ties or marriage but are considered equivalent to familial bonds.
Kinship – social bonds and relationships derived from blood ties (biological connections), marriage, or adoption. Kinships systems help establish patterns of social interaction, support networks, and the transmission of cultural norms and values across generations.
Kinship Navigator Program – social service initiative designed to support kinship caregivers – relatives or close family friends. These programs provide caregivers with information, resources, and assistance in navigating various systems such as legal, financial, educational, healthcare services. The goal is to ensure that kinship caregivers have the necessary support to provide a stable and nurturing home for children in their care.
Legal Custody - legal court process where a person to act as a parent for a child (under 18 years old) who is not yet independent.
Placement – living arrangement in a home other than the biological parent.
Post Permanency Services - provides comprehensive resources by support provided by states, tribal nations, and territories to families that have adopted or have guardianship of a child.
National Kinship Month - celebrated in September, National Kinship Care Month recognizes and celebrates the grandparents, aunts, uncles, relatives, and non-relatives who care for children when they are unable to live with their parents.

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