Thursday, July 2, 2015

What To Expect During Home Studies For Adoption

By Jordan Schmidt


You have a special place in your heart for children and want to add to your household by adopting a child. You are concerned about the home studies for adoption that are required though and don't quite know what this involves. It is actually a fairly long and involved process, but it is very well worth the time and effort it takes to complete.

Family dynamics and backgrounds are going to be thoroughly scrutinized. Your caseworker is going to ask about everyone's history in your household and even in your extended family. Your motives for taking this giant step are sure to be examined and family past-times and activities scrutinized. Educational information must be provided also.

A review of all of your finances will be held and you will be required to submit bank statements and check stubs to prove that you are stable enough to care for an infant or a child. References will also need to be provided so inquire of all the responsible friends and acquaintances that you know and ask for well written recommendations from all of them. The process cannot move forward without all of these.

Immunizations will be required. Members of the family need to get TB shots before any new children can be introduced to your household. Parents may be asked to take physicals, especially if they are older adults. All members of the immediate family that are above a certain age are required to get fingerprinted so the agency can receive a thorough background check on everyone.

If you have a pool or trampoline in your backyard, there may be specific requirements that need to be met. You will also have to give your caseworker proof of insurance on all of your vehicles and show that you own the proper car seats for younger children.

A fire inspection is also a requirement and this is usually at the adoptive parents' expense. It will need to be updated every one or two years. A representative from the office of the fire marshal will do a walk-through of the residence and inspect fire alarms, fire extinguishers, posted fire plans, and ensure that your house has the requisite number of exits.

A health inspection by your local health department is also a requirement. They will inspect for thermometers in the refrigerators and freezers in your home. They may check for proper storage of cleaning items and chemicals. Medications and over the counter drugs must be in a safe and highly secure location. Outside faucets should be fitted with back-flow protection and pet immunizations must be on file.

This process can be lengthy and complicated, but you will have started the quest of making a difference in your own community. This act alone will spiral into the world and create bigger ripples of positive action. Your new children will be better prepared to have a productive life. Your friends and family will see how great your family has become with the new additions and some may even consider going through the process themselves.




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