Whether you’re an experienced adoptive parent or a newcomer, it is always helpful to have an understanding of the process for bringing home a child. This will help you avoid common mistakes and ensure that the adoption process is as successful as possible for everyone involved.
The Adoption Process
When a family decides to adopt, they typically begin the adoption process by completing a home study. This process involves meeting with a social worker and filling out forms, as well as undergoing a series of interviews with people who know you best. This is an important step because it allows the agency to assess your home and determine if you are a safe and suitable match for the child you hope to adopt.
Once the home study is complete, families then go through a number of steps to finalize the adoption. They may need to complete Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC) paperwork, attend post-placement visits and complete a legal process called the Orphan Visa application.
The Home Study
A home study can take up to five months to complete, but it is a key step in determining if you are a good match for a child. It includes things such as a home visit by the case worker, health exams and proof of income and health coverage.
You’ll also need to provide a criminal background check and references. These can include members of your family, friends or people who are close to you and who can speak about your character.
In addition to your home study, you will need to meet with the agency’s social worker to determine if your family is a good match for a particular child. The social worker will work with you to create a specific plan for your adoption and make sure you are prepared to meet the child’s needs and requirements.
The Waiting Period
The wait to adopt a child can be a challenging time for the family, but it’s essential that you remain positive and patient. During this period, your adoption specialist at American Adoptions will be available to answer any questions and keep you informed about the child’s progress.
Specifying Gender and Other Factors in Your Profile
Having a preference for gender, age or health factors will dramatically increase your chances of being matched with a child. This is particularly true if you are open to all ethnicities and races.
Stability and Experience
A larger, national adoption agency has a better chance of matching you with a birth mother than a smaller, local agency, because they have more resources to use in reaching prospective birth parents. They also tend to have a higher year-over-year placement rate, so you can expect shorter wait times.
Your Adoption Specialist
Your adoption specialist will provide guidance and support throughout the entire adoption process. They will help you navigate the paperwork, explain your rights as adoptive parents and ensure that the whole process runs smoothly.
