AbstractDespite policy recommendations that foster parents form positive relationships with the parents of children in their care, this is difficult to achieve in actual practice. This study examined relationships between foster parents and parents in a sample of 13 triads of parents, foster parents and caseworkers of children ages 5–13 living in non‐relative foster homes with a goal of reunification (N = 38). Findings highlighted the evolution of relationships over time and the important role of caseworkers in supporting communication between parents and foster parents. Findings also suggest that parents often felt judged and lacked control regarding decision‐making and contact. Casework practice was typically not proactive in creating or supporting better relationships and gave foster parents the choice to communicate with parents only if they wanted to. The first meeting between parents and foster parents was critical for establishing the basis for a relationship, but often lacked structure and clear expectations. When foster parents took the initiative to form collaborative relationships, relationships were often positive, and parents were mutually supportive to one another.