MuskogeePhoenix.com, Muskogee, OK

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June 26, 2012

Adults should care for children

— Revising plans to improve child welfare services at the state Department of Human Services is another step in the process to guarantee quality treatment of children in state custody.

The revisions, released last week, include placing all children younger than 2 in a family-like setting instead of in a group shelter. The plan is part of a settlement of a lawsuit that alleged DHS’ mistreatment of foster children.

The lawsuit proved there are issues at DHS.

Hopefully, these revisions — including the establishment of a training program for DHS staff — will go a long way toward ensuring children are safe.

However, the biggest culprits in the mistreatment of children are not covered by this lawsuit or the changes being made at DHS.

Far too many children wound up in the care of DHS because of irresponsible parents.

Far too many children are not with their families because parents, guardians and family members abused them or themselves.

Parents who chose drugs or alcohol over their children need punishment and training, too.

Parents, guardians and family members who abuse these children deserve time in prison.

Children are a gift from God.

Adults have a moral obligation to care for the most vulnerable among us.

If adults could care for children properly in the first place, there would not be a need for the state to take over that care.

Parents, not the government, should raise children.

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