Adopting a child is an exciting and love-filled adventure. It is also a learning process. The state of Indiana requires its residents to have a home study as part of the adoption process. According to One True Gift, during the home study you will meet the majority of the adoption agency’s staff. It’s important that you feel comfortable with all the staff and their ability to meet your needs, answer your questions, and provide the bonding you need to feel with the agency.
Domestic Home Study Process
According to the Adoption Support Center, the largest home study provider in Indiana, a home study is required even if you live outside of the state. Contact a licensed agency in your state to perform the study and send it to the Adoption Support Center in order to work with them. You will be required to attend the home study class and the office interview provided by the Adoption Support Center.
. A registration packet will be mailed to you after you book a date for your adoption home study. Packets will also be mailed to those who sign up as interstate families.
. Both Indiana and interstate families will undergo a two-hour agency interview.
. Home study classes meet on the second Friday of the month from 9 am to 5 pm.
. There is a scheduled two-hour home visit with husband and wife.
. Families residing in Indiana will also have a follow-up home study visit.
International Home Study Process
. You will attend a one-hour agency office interview to answer your questions and concerns regarding international adoptions.
. International adoption families have a scheduled home study visit of between two and three hours. This will take place shortly after your office interview. During the home visit you will be asked about the child you wish to adopt, his or her country, and the agency you plan to use.
. Your family will be required to complete a ten-hour course of Hague Treaty approved training. There are a variety of resources to help you meet this criterion including a classroom environment and online web materials. The learning format choice is yours.
. When you return to the United States, call immediately for a follow-up visit, which is required by most countries.
There is no reason to fear the required home studies. There is always someone available to answer your questions and provide any information you need.