Starting your adoption journey is an exciting time filled with hope and possibility. One of the most important steps in this process is completing your home study.
It’s normal to have questions about what to expect. To help you feel prepared and confident, we’ve answered 10 of the most common adoption home study questions below. When you’re ready to begin, call 608-821-8220 or email aowinfo@adoptionsofwisconsin.com.
Adoption Home Study Questions and Answers
Learning about the home study process can ease your worries and help you feel more prepared for the road ahead. By understanding what to expect, you’ll be ready to take another step toward holding your child in your arms.
Here are 10 common home study questions that hopeful adoptive parents have:
1. Who Can Complete a Home Study in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, a licensed professional must complete your home study. According to state regulations, this could be a psychologist, psychiatrist, advanced practice social worker, independent social worker, clinical social worker or professional counselor.
Many adoption agencies, including Adoptions of Wisconsin, are licensed to conduct home studies. By working with us, you won’t need to find another provider — we can guide you through every step of the process.
2. How Much Does a Home Study Cost?
Home study costs vary depending on where you live. This fee covers your social worker’s time, expertise and administrative work to complete your comprehensive evaluation. Some home studies agencies may have higher upfront costs, but they offer minimal wait times and a more efficient process compared to other professionals.
3. How Long Does a Home Study Take?
A home study involves gathering documentation, completing a home inspection and participating in interviews. Most home studies are completed in less than a few months, but factors like the complexity of your paperwork, scheduling availability and how quickly you provide required documents can all influence the timeline.
4. When Should I Start the Home Study?
Because the home study can take a few months to complete, it’s important to start as soon as possible. Your social worker will need time to complete each step. However, being prepared with your documents and scheduling availability can help speed up the process.
5. What Do Adoption Agencies Look for in a Home Study?
The home study has three key parts: documentation (including a background check), a home inspection and interviews with you and others in your household. Your social worker’s goal is to assess whether you’re ready to adopt and can provide a safe, stable home for a child.
6. What if I Have a Criminal History?
A background check is a key part of the home study process. Certain convictions — such as those involving violence or minors — make you ineligible to adopt. However, minor offenses like traffic violations usually aren’t a concern. Be honest with your social worker about your record and bring up any concerns beforehand.
7. Will I Need Home Study References?
You may need to provide letters of recommendation as part of your documentation. These references should come from people who know you well but aren’t related to you. Consider asking co-workers, close friends, neighbors or church leaders to write about their relationships with you and why they think you’d make a great parent.
8. What Will a Social Worker Look for in My Home?
Your social worker isn’t expecting a perfectly staged house. Instead, they’ll check that your home has enough space for a child and is a safe, clean environment. To prepare for the visit, you can baby-proof your home and start considering where your child will sleep and play.
9. What Questions Do They Ask in an Adoption Interview?
During the interview, your social worker will ask about your background, your reasons for adopting, and how you plan to raise a child. They’ll also talk to other members of your household to better understand your family dynamic. These adoption interview questions don’t have “right” answers, so don’t feel pressured to answer a certain way.
10. Will My Home Study Expire?
In Wisconsin, home studies are valid for one year. If you’re waiting for an adoption opportunity after that time, you’ll need to update your information and complete an abbreviated update with your social worker.
How to Start the Home Study Process
Completing a home study is an important step on your path to adoption. If you’re ready to begin, call 608-821-8220 or email aowinfo@adoptionsofwisconsin.com today. Our experienced social workers are here to support you and help you take the next step in building your family.
