What Will We Need to Do?

Requirements and Qualifications to Adopt

Whether you need a domestic home study or an international home study, the requirements for Louisiana are specifically detailed in the Children's Code and the Administrative Code. At least two home visits are required, and individual interviews with each member of the household are necessary. In addition, child abuse and criminal background checks must be completed, references must be obtained, and specific financial and family information must be documented and reviewed. Your doctor must complete a Physician’s Report, and documents such as your birth certificate, marriage license, final divorce decree
(if previously married), and tax forms are gathered. There should be no more than fifty years’ difference between the child and the youngest adopting parent. There are no minimum financial qualifications other than the ability to support a child. Single, divorced, and remarried persons are all eligible. For married couples, the required length of marriage differs according to type of adoption and other variables.

Preparation and Education

Parenting concepts, discipline methods, family values and traditions, safety precautions, and other important issues are discussed.

Part of the home study is devoted to discussing what you may expect from an adoption, how to tell your child he or she is adopted, the developmental challenges of an adopted child, openness in adoption, search issues, and other adoption-related topics.  In addition, you may have many other topics you would like to address, and it is important that all your questions are answered and that all information is clarified during the process. For this reason, you are encouraged to take your time during the study so that you feel well prepared for this lifetime experience.

International Adoption

For an international adoption, additional topics are discussed and reviewed, especially if the adoption involves an older child. Such subjects as the orphanage experience, cultural differences, honoring your child's heritage, nutritional needs, geneticist opinions, videotaping, medicines, gifts, and adjustments to a new home are all explored in addition to other information pertinent to you and your child's experience.

In Summary

The Adoption Home Study can be a wonderful process of discovery and growth and a special way to prepare for the child to come. Please feel free to contact us with your questions or to arrange a consultation at no charge. We look forward to working with you.