Older Child Adoption

The Home Study consists of an autobiography of you (and your spouse/partner), and a series of personal interviews conducted by a representative from your agency. Each must write a personal essay expanding on two primary questions. How did you become who you are today? How will you parent? An outline of more questions may be provided to guide your thoughts. It is important to write freely and openly about yourself and your life. For some this will be easy. It’s a trip down memory lane. You describe who you are to yourself and others around you.

Some of the guided questions posed may include: Who raised you? What values were important in your family? What is your educational background? How does your extended family feel about this adoption? What is your current relationship with your family? There are no correct answers. However, the adoption agency and state evaluates your ideas on becoming parents. Write, re-write and enjoy. Ample time is provided to complete this part of the home study. We suggest writing one section at a time.

A series of personal interviews will be held at the agency’s office and your home. Your home’s safety and space will be evaluated for raising a child. Your referrals will provide information on your personality and trust. Discussions will address many of the same questions written in the autobiography. These are easy conversations with your agency caseworker. Notes will be recorded. This is perfect time to discuss the child you wish to parent: age, ethnicity, acceptable health issues; as well as address concerns about bonding, attachment, counseling services and support groups. A good social worker will help you decide what child will best fit in your family and community.

From the paperwork submitted and interviews conducted, your caseworker will prepare a Home Study report. This is the official document with respect to your character and parenting abilities; and serves as your recommendation to adopt a child. This report includes information gathered from your application, autobiography(s), personal interviews, house evaluation, reference letters, financial information, medical information, police character reports, and more. The Home Study is exhaustive, intrusive and thorough. It needs to be. This report initiates the process for adopting a child.