Last year 20,000 children in Arizona were in out-of-home placement, including foster care. A new study has insights on how to improve their care by giving foster families more of a say.

Researchers from the Annie E. Casey Foundation recommend that foster families be valued as important members of the foster-care team, not viewed as mere beds in the system.

The report suggests foster parents should be encouraged to develop a strong personal relationship with the child, whereas in years past they were told to keep their distance emotionally to facilitate reintegration with the family.

The report also recommends foster families be given legal protections and be empowered to make everyday decisions about things like haircuts and after-school activities. The Arizona Department of Child Safety says it takes many steps to support foster families.