Legislative declaration and findings

1. The Legislature declares that the preservation and strengthening of family life is a part of the public policy of this State.

2. The Legislature finds that: (a) Severance of the parent and child relationship is a matter of such importance in order to safeguard the rights of parent and child as to require judicial determination. (b) Judicial selection of the person or agency to be entrusted with the custody and control of a child after such severance promotes the welfare of the parties and of this State. (c) The continuing needs of a child for proper physical, mental and emotional growth and development are the decisive considerations in proceedings for termination of parental rights.