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The Adoption Home Study

Tips for Completing this Important Step in the Adoption Process

© Crystal Killion

Nov 27, 2007

You have decided to adopt. You've explored your options and talked with your spouse and family. The next step is to complete a home study. Here's what you need to know. For prospective adoptive parents, the home study process can seem daunting to say the least. However, if you want to adopt, it is a necessary step. So, what is the home study and what can you do to prepare for it?

In a Nutshell

In a nutshell, the home study examines your life, your family, and your home environment.

Further, they will want to know about your childhood, your religious background, educational level, previous significant relationships and marriages, and child-rearing philosophies. Workers will want to know how your family handles stress, and how your family will be able to adapt to the changes that another child will bring to your life. Even sharing what you do for fun is an important aspect in obtaining a clear picture of who you are as a family.

The Paperwork

Ahhh ... paperwork. Who loves paperwork, right? Although the amount of paperwork that a home study requires seems overwhelming, the only real way to handle it is to get busy.

Here is a list of the documents you will need:

  • Criminal Record Checks – every adult living in the household will need to have one completed.
  • Living Expenses – you may be required to fill out a budget sheet.
  • Medicals - for each adult living in the household.
  • Marriage Licenses
  • Divorce Decrees
  • Letters of Reference – you will be asked to provide 3 references
Home Study Survival Tips
  • Answer the profile and social worker questions as accurately and concisely as possible.
  • Complete the paperwork and gather needed information in a timely manner.
  • Make copies for your own files – this way if something gets lost in the shuffle you will be able to quickly replace it.
  • Remember that the home study is a process, it takes time.
And Finally . . .

The home study is an emotional and private experience, and the whole process can be intimidating at times. Your social worker knows and understands that they are getting into some personal areas and that it can be difficult to talk about certain things. However, as Teri says, "We also know that is how families are – it’s not what happens that is as important as how it was handled."

One final piece of advice: relax. Soon this step will be completed and you can move onto what really matters – bringing your new son or daughter home.

Article from Suite101.com