Start the Process

Complete An Application

If possible, attend an orientation session before filling out an application, so you are confident in the agency’s ability to meet your needs. Application fees are often non-refundable, even if you decide to work through a different agency or change your mind about adopting.

Once you have decided to work with an agency or approved adoption practitioner and completed the application process, the next step is the home study. Ask your social worker how you should go about scheduling and preparing for your home study.
 

Complete A Home Study

A home study is an important part of the adoption process and everyone who hopes to adopt a child must complete one. Also called a family profile, this is an in-depth review that prospective adoptive parents must go through to be able to legally adopt. A home study typically includes evaluations of the adoptive parents' relationship, inspections of their residence, parenting ideals, medical history, employment verification, financial status and police checks.

Items you may need for a home study - Specific requirements for home studies vary by province and territory and agency, so be sure to ask for a list of the items and information your agency needs. Most applicants are asked to provide written information about themselves and agencies may also require certain documents, such as a marriage license (if appropriate), birth certificate, police check and personal references. Most applicants are required to have a physical exam and provide a medical report.

At some point in the process, you may also need to pay for the home study. There is usually no cost through a public child welfare authority. Other agencies or approved adoption practitioners typically charge $500 to $3,000 for a completed study. 

Questions you may be asked - During home study meetings, you can expect to answer questions about your background, education, job history, marriage, leisure activities, religion, and your experiences with children.

The important thing to remember is that the aim of any home study is to help the agency locate the best home for each child it places, and make good matches between prospective parents and children. If you have questions about the process or the specific information that you should provide, ask your social worker or agency.
 

Take Adoption and Parenting Classes

Many agencies offer group classes for families considering adoption. These classes also provide an open forum for prospective parents to discuss questions.

Some public child welfare authorities require pre-placement training to acquaint prospective parents with issues that can arise after a child or sibling group is placed with them. Each child brings their own unique special needs, but older children also have a history of life experiences that will affect interactions with adoptive parents, new siblings, schoolmates and others.

Even if your agency does not require a training course, all prospective parents should take advantage of opportunities to learn about adoption issues and parenting.