Annotated bibliography developed by Chapin Hall which highlights 50 social science research on on kinship caregivers and children in kinship care. This resource provides a list of source citations, the kinship population studied (formal, informal, or diversion/voluntary), key findings, notable result(s), and its limitations. This bibliography is drawn almost entirely from peer-reviewed academic research and on articles published between 2016 and 2026 (September 2026). 

GrandFamilies journal article evaluating the Kinnections kinship navigator program provided by Wayfinder Family Services in Northern California. The study finds that kinship caregivers who participate in the program are more likely to be referred to services, be satisfied with those services, and report increased levels of social support than their peers who did not participate. 

This publication developed by ABA Center on Children and the Law, Children’s Defense Fund, and Generations United helps kinship families and the professionals who assist them compare caregiving options. It provides a broad, national overview about the choices and considerations to help caregivers make informed decisions about the pathways to pursue (2022). A webinar of this tool can be viewed here.  

This report from the Annie E. Casey Foundation explores the practice of "kinship diversion" in which children are placed with relatives as an alternative to foster care.  Different perspectives about whether kinship diversion is a good or bad practice are offered.  The report concludes that child welfare agencies should more thoroughly explore their kinship diversion practices to ensure they adequately meet the needs of children, their parents and kinship caregivers (2013).

New toolkit created to assist legal professionals understand the value of kinship, the federal laws impacting kin, and the role judges and attorneys play in working with families and kin who open their hearts and homes. In this toolkit you will find resources and practical tips to assist in day-to-day work in addition to a judicial bench card and videos of voices from the field.