Learn the steps to adopting a child in Florida.
The adoption process is made up of many important steps to ensure whether your family is right for a foster child. Orientation, in-depth training and many visits with a counselor are part of this process. The process of being approved and matched with a child will usually take nine months.
Instructions
1. Schedule an orientation session. The orientation is a presentation that gives you a chance to meet and talk with experienced adoptive parents. Counselors also will be on hand to provide an overview of the entire adoption process. To schedule an orientation, contact Florida's Adoption Information Center at 1-800-96ADOPT. The center will place you with people in your area who will assist you and get you started with the adoption process.
2. Begin the Model Approach to Partnership in Parenting, MAPP, training course. All adoptive parents in Florida must complete this 10-week training course. The MAPP training gives you an opportunity to assess your family and explore adoption issues. Training sessions are normally scheduled on nights or weekends.
3. Set up a home study with your counselor. All prospective adoptive parents must pass a home study. The purpose of a home study is to ensure the child will have a secure and safe home. Local, state and federal background checks also will take place during this time. These will be given to all adults living in the household. References from employers and school officials for parents with school-aged children will be required. Character references from people who have known your family also will be needed.
A counselor will visit your home to talk to you and your family members about the adoption process. Typical questions delve into your reasons for adopting, financial situation and parenting styles and philosophies. Married couples may be asked about the strength of their marriage. It is very important to be completely open and honest to ensure a successful adoption. All this information is sent for approval to an adoption specialist. You will be notified as soon as your application is approved.
4. Attend recruitment activities with foster children who are available for adoption. If you are interested in a particular child or sibling group, you notify your counselor. After the child is placed with you in your home, the counselor will make monthly visits to assess the child's adjustment. The counselor also will determine whether additional or new services are needed. When the counselor provides the "Consents to Adopt" form to your attorney, the supervision period ends. Usually a child will live with the adoptive family for six months before the adoption is finalized. At the end of the six months, your attorney will schedule a hearing to legalize the adoption. The child is then officially part of your family.
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