"step down" placements

It is the norm here than when children and youth are placed in residential facilities, they are sent to therapeutic foster homes, usually for at least 6 months, before they return home. Services for parents tend to focus on parents "fixing" what's "wrong" with themselves (housing, employment, CD treatment if needed, therapy for themselves). Where the child has a disability, however, it may be more important to link parents with services and supports for parents of chidlren with disabilities. Many parents of children with disabilities need--and develop--informal support networks beyond typical community and family supports, such as through organizatins like ARC, FFCMH, aitism organizations, and others. They also may need to access disability services that do not (should not) require out of home placement to obtain. Otherwise, the "step down" placement may simply become another obstacle to clear before the child returns home, and make his life more transient.

Is there any research comparing the use of "step-down" placements to focusing on making sure the array of needed services is available at home, especially when the child has a disability? Is there any commentary or study on this issue from the standpoint of Olmstead (least restrictive setting)?

Also, I earlier asked if anyone knows how to find stats on the number of kids entering emergency protective custody prior to shelter care orders from the court. No response yet. If anyone knows, I would appreicate the information.

Sheri McMahon