In Re Tania R.

Introduction

Aura R. appeals from a 12-month status review order which continued family reunification services and denied her request for immediate return of her children, Tania and Norman.

Tania (aged five) and Norman (ten months) were detained in protective custody in February 1992, pursuant to a petition alleging serious physical harm, failure to protect, and no provision for support (Welf. & Inst. Code, § 300, subds. (a), (b) & (g)). In support of these allegations, the Alameda County Social Services Agency (the Agency) alleged Aura had repeatedly beaten the minors resulting in serious injury, she was then incarcerated for felony child abuse (Pen. Code, § 273a), she was homeless, and the identity and whereabouts of the minors’ father(s) were unknown.

At the jurisdictional hearing, Aura submitted to the petition as amended. The children were placed with their maternal aunt in Stockton. The court adopted a reunification plan requiring, among other things, that Aura meet regularly with a child welfare worker, visit her children regularly, complete a parent education program, maintain a stable, safe, and sanitary place of abode for the needs of the minors, refrain from…