The home study is an important part of the process of adopting a child in New Jersey. Part of the purpose is for Child Protection and Permanency to learn more about you and your family.
However, according to the New Jersey Department of Children and Families, the home study also serves another purpose: To help you learn more about the adoption process and prepare for a new family member. Here are some of the steps involved in the home study.
1. References
As a prospective adoptive parent, you must submit to a background check to see if you have a history of child abuse or criminal activity. In addition, you must provide references from people familiar with your personal, medical and employment history.
2. Preservice training
As a required part of the home study, you must undergo 27 hours of training that CP&P provides. In the training, you learn about the responsibilities you have as an adopted parent and gain information to help you make an informed decision about whether adopting a child will be satisfying to you.
3. Interviews
All members of your family must undergo individual interviews with a representative of the agency. There will also be joint interviews with two or more family members. The interviews give the agency an opportunity to learn your family’s story.
4. Home visit
Your home has to meet established safety standards to be acceptable for an adopted child. A visit to your home allows the agency to assess whether your home meets the minimum safety requirements.
If your home study receives approval, it goes into the statewide match system, and the agency can start looking for a child for you on a preliminary basis.