Legal Definitions - out-of-home placement

Definition: Out-of-home placement refers to the act of placing a child in a living arrangement outside of their home, such as foster care or institutional care. This is usually done as a result of abuse or neglect. Specifically, in cases of child abuse or neglect, the state may take action to remove the child from their parent's or custodian's home and place them in foster care or with a relative, either temporarily or for an extended period.

Examples:

• A child who has been physically abused by their parents may be placed in foster care.
• A child who has been neglected by their parents, such as not being provided with adequate food or shelter, may be placed with a relative.
• A child who has been sexually abused by a family member may be placed in institutional care.

These examples illustrate how out-of-home placement is used to protect children who are at risk of harm in their own homes. It is a way for the state to ensure that children are safe and cared for when their parents or custodians are unable or unwilling to do so.