Are you preparing for your adoption home study? This is an exciting time, but we also understand that it can be a nerve-racking process. With interviews, preparation, and a lot of paperwork, it’s hard to know exactly what to expect. While every home study will look different, it’s important to prepare your mind, heart, and home for the road ahead.
Understand The Timeline
It’s difficult to plan ahead when you aren’t sure what the adoption home study process looks like. While the timeline can shift throughout the process, it usually takes about three months to complete. The timeline depends on when paperwork is turned in, how quickly background checks are completed, and when the agency receives letters of recommendation. Ask your adoption specialist what you should expect, and make sure to mark all of the important dates and deadlines on your calendar!
Find Important Documents
It isn’t always easy to find important documents that you don’t use every day. Whether they are tucked away at the bottom of a drawer or in a box in the garage, it might take some digging to find what you are looking for. Make sure you have a complete list from your adoption agency, so that you don’t miss anything! Some of the things you might need could include driver’s licenses, birth certificates, marriage certificates, proof of insurance.
Prepare For Your Interview
While some couples like to go off the cuff, others find it eases their nerves to prepare for their adoption home study interview. Think about the questions that you might encounter. Why do you want to adopt? How would you describe your parenting style? What do you envision for your family? These are just a few questions that might be asked, but every home study looks a little different. It also might be helpful to connect with other families who have been through the process in your area!
Make A List of Questions
You can’t predict every twist and turn that the adoption process might bring. Sit down and write out a list of questions you have about the process. You might want to ask about things like home study fees, how you can best prepare, and how to get a hold of your specialist if questions or concerns come up. Many people find that they are less nervous when they feel prepared. While you may run into different hiccups with scheduling or finding a certain document, know that your team is working hard to make this process as easy as possible!
New Beginnings can provide adoption home study services to families regardless of which agency you are working with as your primary agency. Our team will work quickly to make the process as seamless as possible for you and your family. Reach out to us for more information!
