The words “home study” can be intimidating to any family hoping to adopt. After all, it is a written report about your family and ability to raise a child. But an adoption home study doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. More often than not, adoption agencies are looking for ways to rule families in rather than rule them out. Be yourself, be honest about your lifestyle choices, and most importantly, express your passion for wanting to adopt.
Everlasting Adoptions understands the emotions tied to the adoption process. Before completing your adoption home study, consider these tips on what to expect.
Home Visits:
Sure, you want your home to be presentable for your adoption home study; but don’t dwell on the little things. Your caseworker isn’t there to point out crooked picture frames or specks of dust around the house. They are there to evaluate how suitable your home is for raising a child. Is it spacious enough for a child? Is it safe? It’s understandable that the home visit might be the most stressful part of the home study. But try not to worry too much. Since home studies are scheduled in advance, you will have plenty of time to present your home the way you want. Have fun with it, and be excited to show your caseworker that your home is a loving and safe environment.
Personal Questions:
What many adoptive parents don’t realize is that a home study can be quite personal. Be prepared to be presented with some deep questions you may have not been expecting. This goes beyond the obvious questions about your occupation, location and education. Prepare yourself for answering other types of questions regarding finances, your relationship with your spouse, how you plan to discipline your child, how you were disciplined and what your relationship is like with your family.
Separate Interviews:
It’s safe to say that most of the home study will be conducted with both spouses. However, a portion of the home study may be conducted separately. Some caseworkers like to interview couples one-on-one to see both perspectives on the decision to adopt and what each individual’s motivations are. They want assurance that both parents are 100% on board (which we know you are!).
Ask Your Own Questions:
Think of the adoption home study like a job interview. You are interviewing them just as much as they are interviewing you. Instead of solely focusing on what you will say in response to their questions, consider your own questions, as well. Adopting a newborn is an extensive process and you want to be informed as much as possible.
The home study will take three to four months to complete – give or take. Everyone gets anxious about their home study. But if you are properly prepared and have an idea of what to expect, it will be a smooth experience that may even be enjoyable! Never hesitate to contact us should you have any questions about the adoption home study or the adoption process. We look forward to making your adoption a joyous and powerful experience.