In order to assure that children in state care are going to stable homes where they will be well cared for, there are several qualifications an individual must meet in order to be considered as a foster or adoptive placement.
Foster or adoption can be done by individuals (whether single, widowed, or divorced) or married couples. The minimum age requirement varies by state, but is typically 21. The primary goal of the state or agency is to find a stable, loving environment for each child, regardless of the actual composition of the family.
In order to foster or adopt, an individual or couple must go through a certification process wherein their physical, emotional, and financial readiness are minimally assessed. Though this process varies by state or agency, the majority include a background check, an in home evaluation done by the state or agency (called a home study), a physical done by your physician, personal references, and submission of current financial documents. It is in this way that the agency can evaluate an individual or couple’s ability to care for a child.
Background Checks
To assure the safety of the infant or child, a background check is required. This includes obtaining a fingerprint clearance card, which individuals working in a medical profession, teaching, or law enforcement typically have. Instructions on how to acquire the fingerprint clearance card vary by state. The foster or adoption agency will direct the process.
Physical Readiness
During the process of certification, each individual is required to have a physical done to assess their physical and emotional health. A form is given to the prospective parent to take with them to their appointment to be filled out and signed by the physician. This ensures that an individual is physically capable of meeting the needs of a child. Although many medical diagnosis will not necessarily prohibit adoption, the state must be made aware of all diagnosed conditions in order to appropriately place infants and children. An individual with mental health considerations such as anxiety or depression may require an additional form submitted by a licensed therapist stating that they are emotionally prepared to undergo the process of foster or adoption and are able to care for a child or children.
Emotional Preparation
The emotional dynamic of a family is taken into consideration. An agency may require that each family member be interviewed to assess their willingness to embrace the inevitable change adding a new family member (whether temporary or permanent) will bring. There is often a questionnaire that each adult involved is asked to submit asking about their feelings concerning various aspects of foster care or adoption. These assessments help the state or agency place children appropriately.
Financial Preparedness
Although the state does seek to establish a prospective parent’s financial stability, an individual need not be wealthy in order to adopt. Individuals can be considered whether they own or rent a home or apartment. The evaluation necessarily establishes the individual or family’s ability to care for the ongoing needs of the children. There are very few costs involved with adopting through the state. Many resources are available to assist a foster family financially.
While all agencies require these basic qualifications, some have additional requirements that meet with that individual agencies particular standards. With a variety of adoptive and foster agencies available to work with, families of every dynamic can find an agency ready to work with their individual values.