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The home study report is a legal requirement for every adoption. The home study details your family’s suitability to become adoptive parent(s). The home study process is intended to not only investigate suitability issues, but also to help adoptive parents understand the unique issues that may come up during and after the adoption, and to prepare parents for raising an adopted child.

A social worker will meet with adoptive parents to prepare the home study by gathering information about each parent’s background; relationships with spouse/partner, family and friends; education and career history; finances; home and neighborhood; health; attitude toward discipline and other parenting issues; and the type of adoption that best suits your family. Each adoptive parent and any other adult household members must obtain criminal and child abuse background clearances.

Florida Adoption Home Studies utilizes the Structured Analysis Family Evaluation (SAFE) methodology.   

SAFE is the Consortium for Children’s standardized, uniform home study methodology that is used to assess prospective families. Used throughout the United States and Canada, the methodology can be used to assess individuals applying to become foster parents, adoptive parents, kinship providers, and/or guardianship providers. SAFE is designed to provide a uniform and comprehensive home study process. It is also designed to help eliminate worker bias and protect everyone involved.

The methodology consists of four components: the Information Gathering Tools, the Structured Analysis, the Pre-Formatted Home Study Report, and the SAFE Compatibility Inventory. Each component ties in together to create a thorough evaluation.

To use the SAFE methodology, Susan Speropulos, LCSW became SAFE certified at the Supervisory level. All SAFE Supervisors must have completed both the SAFE 2-Day Training and the SAFE Supervisor Training. The SAFE certification trainings are provided by Consortium for Children.

While this all may sound intimidating, the intent of the adoption home study is to support and prepare the adopting family for the adoption process and placement of a child. Click here to schedule a Free Home Study Consultation!