The Children’s Administration tells us that, "children who move numerous times while in out-of-home care may become frustrated and tired, and may grow fearful of establishing new relationships because they learn that the people they form bonds with will be temporary figures in their lives." 

For this indicator, we must look at data provided by DSHS Children’s Administration Region 5, which includes Pierce and Kitsap County.  Pierce County comprises 75% of the Region 5 Foster Care caseload. 

As of November 2008, 85.8% (1,156) of children in out-of-home care experienced no more than two placements in Region 5, down slightly compared to the period October 2006 to September 2007, when 87.4% (1,107) of children in Region 5 had no more than two placements in out-of-home care, compared to 86.7% nationally and 85% percent across the state.  

Timely reunifications are also a measure of permanency for children in foster care.  The federal standard for timely reunifications (children reunified within 12-months) is >= 76.2%.  DSHS Children’s Administration reports that in Region 5 82.9% of children are reunified within 12-months.