Let's Talk (602) 795-1170
201 W. Indian School Rd.
Phoenix, AZ 85013
Department of Child Safety Visitation Services
Supervised visits / parenting time is ordered when children are temporarily removed from the physical custody of their parent/caregiver, due to abuse and/or neglect. Supervised parent-child time help parents and children stay connected and engaged, with safe and meaningful interactions, during the separation and reunification process, while services are being implemented to support the family.
Supervised visits are one of the first services for families after a child has been removed. Supervised visits / parenting time is provided in 3-month increments. The frequency and location are determined by the DCS Safety Specialist; however, supervised visits / parenting time, generally take place 2-times per week and are 2-hours each. Locations include the community, a parent’s/caregiver’s home, visitation center or DCS office. Some visit locations need advance approval from the DCS Case Manager, such as swimming, the movies, etc. Case Aides must agree to visits with entrance fees as costs are not reimbursable. Case Aides are not permitted to accept any food, gifts, monies, or have entrance fees paid for by a parent/caregiver. The DCS Safety Specialist, assigned to help the family, initiates the process for these services by submitting a referral. In some instances, there may be a wait to receive services due to many families needing to be referred. Once Family Service Aides receives the referral to provide services, a Case Aide is immediately assigned.
1st Contact
Within 24-hours of receiving the referral, the Case Aide will call the parent/caregiver, foster family or group home, and DCS Safety Specialist or Case Manager, to introduce themselves and set up visitation.
1st Visit
The 1st visit must be scheduled within 5-business days of the introduction call. Visit locations, duration, and frequency, are outlined in the referral by AZDCS. At the first visit / parenting time meeting, the Case Aide will introduce themselves and review the DCS Guidelines with the parent. The Guidelines help set clear expectations for successful and safe visits / parenting time.
Transportation
Parents/caregivers are responsible for their own transportation to and from visits; however, in some instances, the DCS Case Manager may arrange transportation. Case Aides are responsible to safely transport the child(ren) to and from the visit.
Documentation
The Case Aide is required to be present for the entire visit and must always be within eyeshot and earshot, including use of the bathroom. The Case Aide will take notes of things that the parent/caregiver is doing well and identify areas for improvement. The Case Aide will provide coaching and feedback and is available to help if a parent needs assistance or has questions. The Case Aide is not permitted to discuss the case with the parent/caregiver or the placement/foster family. Questions should be directed to the DCS Safety Specialist. The only people permitted to be at the supervised visits / parenting time, are the parent(s) and child(ren), unless prior approval has been provided by the DCS Case Manager to the Case Aide.
PARENTS
DCS requires that Case Aides review the DCS Visitation Guidelines with the parent(s) at the 1st visit / parenting time meeting. The guidelines outline the expectations for actions and behavior during the visit / parenting time to ensure the safety, care, and well-being of children. In some instances, visits may be ended early if actions and behaviors warrant it. For example, coming to the visit / parenting time under the influence of alcohol or drugs, becoming verbally or physical aggressive, bringing a weapon, having unapproved persons at the visit /parenting time, etc. Please refer to the DCS Visitation Guidelines [MC2] for more information.
Parents/caregivers should come to the visits prepared to engage with their children and bring snacks or meals, and diapers, wipes, and formula, for infants and toddlers. Many parents who have community visits / parenting time, choose to come to the Good Living Center. The Good Living Center
It's normal for children to experience a range of emotions and display challenging behaviors during visits / parenting time. The behaviors can add stress for the parent. While parents are the expert on their child(ren), Case Aides can provide support, through education, redirection, and intervention, to help with behaviors and deescalate situations when necessary. It’s okay to ask for help. Parenting requires many skills, which can be increased through education, practice, and behavior changes.
Many parents/caregivers exchange a journal with the placement of their child(ren). This allows for communication regarding health updates, school progress, and things that are taking place. If you are a parent who is receiving services and would be interested in this, please speak with your Case Aide.
If you are receiving services and have questions, suggestions, or concerns, please contact Family Service Aides (602) 795-1170.