What Is A Home Study And Why Do I Need One?

Domestic and International Adoption laws require a home study for all adoptions. The home study is relied upon by placing agencies, attorneys, judges, as well as state and foreign governments. At Oklahoma Home Study we will assist you through, what can appear to be, a detailed maze of documentation and requirements. The main purpose of the home study is to insure that families are prepared to take on the responsibility of parenting and can provide a safe and nurturing home for a child. A completed home study assures that several basic elements are present in a family: a stable home environment, the emotional and financial resources to raise a child, and the genuine desire to be a parent. 

 

What Is The Home Study Assessment Process? 

The home study professional will have several visits with you to gather the necessary information required in a home study assessment. At a minimum, one of the visits will be in your home. The home visit will include individual interviews with the prospective parent's), children living in the home, and any other people living in the home with you.

 

What Will The Home Study Professional Be Looking For When He/She Visits My Home? 

The home study professional is not visiting to conduct a white glove inspection. The home study professional is simply looking  to see if the child will be entering a safe and healthy environment.

 

What Documentation Will I Need To Provide? 

This is dependent on the type of study, agency requirements, and international requirements. The following list is fairly typical: 

Child Abuse Registry Clearances  

FBI and OSBI criminal clearances

Physician's Reports

Verifications of Employment

Verification of Income                                

Marriage Certificates                         

Birth Certificates                

Divorce Decrees (if applicable)

Names, addresses and telephone numbers of  six references and all adult children.

 

Will I Obtain A Copy Of My Home Study Report When It Is Completed?  

Yes, you will be able to read the home study to assure the accuracy of the content and suggest any corrections you would like to see made. You will then be given two notarized copies of the study. The references are confidential and will be the only documentation of which you will not be able to review or receive a copy.

   

What Is A Home Study Update?    

Oklahoma State Statutes requires the expiration of a home study at the date of one year since signature completion.  At expiration the home study may be  extended another year by the completion of an update. An International adoption home study requires an update if there is any significant change in the family circumstances such as a change in residence.