Which statement about services is true for a Texas child-placing agency?

• A. Do not offer unrelated services that conflict with a child’s best interests
• B. Offer any services regardless of impact
• C. Only offer services approved by parents
• D. Avoid offering any services altogether

Answer: (A)

The essential idea is that services provided by a Texas child-placing agency must protect the child’s safety and well-being and support the child’s best interests. This means offering services that are appropriate and helpful to the child’s plan, while avoiding anything unrelated or that could undermine the child’s welfare. If a service could conflict with what’s best for the child, it should not be offered.

Why this is the best fit: agencies have a responsibility to focus on activities and supports that promote the child’s welfare, safety, and permanency. They must assess the potential impact of any service and steer away from offerings that don’t align with the child’s needs.

The other ideas don’t fit because they either ignore impact on welfare, assume parental approval is the sole basis for services, or suggest withholding services entirely, none of which align with safeguarding the child’s best interests.