What is a kinship family?

A kinship family refers to a familial structure where a relative or close friend provides care for a child, often in situations where the child's biological parents are unable to do so. This arrangement emphasizes the role of the extended family or community in raising children, aligning with traditional cultural practices and the idea of shared caregiving within a network of relationships. Kinship care can involve various relatives such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, and even close family friends, allowing for a sense of stability and continuity for the child within a familiar environment.

The focus on relatives or close friends highlights the importance of familial bonds and social connections in child-rearing, which is central to the concept of kinship families. In contrast to other family structures like adoptive families, financially-based families, or multi-generational families, the defining characteristic here is the relational aspect and the support provided by those with an emotional and social connection to the child.