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Framework & National Standards
Framework Overview | National Registry | Advisory Council
The Framework & National Standards define what constitutes caregiving youth recognition within the Caregiving Youth Recognition Framework.
This page establishes the authoritative foundation upon which all recognition, documentation, and registry functions are built.
Purpose The Framework
The Framework exists to:
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Provide clear, consistent definitions of caregiving youth contributions
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Establish non-clinical recognition standards
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Support educational and civic acknowledgment
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Reduce inconsistency across schools, communities, and institutions
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Ensure caregiving recognition is ethical, voluntary, and youth-centered
Definition: Caregiving Youth
For purposes of this Framework, a caregiving youth is defined as:
A young person who provides recurring, meaningful support or care within a household or family context that contributes to the well-being, functioning, or stability of others.
This definition:
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Does not require medical diagnosis
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Does not imply pathology or hardship
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Recognizes caregiving as responsibility and contribution, not deficit
Recognition Standards
Recognition under the Framework is guided by the following standards:
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Voluntary participation
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Age-appropriate acknowledgment
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Non-clinical documentation
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Guardian awareness and consent where appropriate
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Respect for family privacy
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No academic penalty or requirement
What the Framework Does Not Do
The Framework does not:
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Diagnose or assess health conditions
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Replace social services or school supports
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Require disclosure of medical or personal details
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Create service mandates or compliance requirements
Stewardship
The Military Child World Expo Foundation serves as national steward of the Framework, responsible for maintaining consistency, transparency, and public trust.
Disclaimer
The Caregiving Youth Recognition Framework is a non-clinical recognition framework stewarded by the Military Child World Expo Foundation. It does not provide medical, diagnostic, therapeutic, or academic credit services and does not replace school or social service systems.