What is a Home Study and Is It Necessary?

What is a Home Study and Is It Necessary?

If you are considering adopting a child from foster care or becoming a foster parent, there is one critical step that needs to be taken: a home study. While it is normal to be nervous and anxious about a home study, it doesn’t have to be that way. At Kulima Family Care Services, we provide all the necessary information and steps you will need to accomplish to pass your home study certification, as well as ongoing resources and support for both adoptive parents and foster parents. Keep reading to learn more about home studies and reach out to us if you have questions!

family laughing

What is a Home Study?

Home studies are required to become a foster parent or adopt a child, whether international or domestic, within the state of Kentucky. This study is a comprehensive overview of the prospective foster or adoptive parents’ lives–including criminal background checks, financials, and what type of relationships you have. This is performed to ensure the child is placed in a safe, nurturing environment. They are usually the most time-consuming part of becoming a foster parent or the adoption process. Extensive reviews and documentation must be completed and thoroughly reviewed by the courts and adoption agency.

foster child holding hand

What Does It Consist Of?

While home studies can vary from state to state, generally they consist of the following:

  • Gathering information like marriage licenses and birth certificates

  • Each member of the household completes an interview process with the agency

  • Home visits performed by a social worker

  • Background checks

  • Character references

  • And more.

It is best to review the recommended requirements per the agency and state of Kentucky when considering becoming a foster parent or adopting a child.

adoptive family

What Is A Home Study Like For Adoption?

When fostering adopt, or looking specifically to adopt a foster care child some specific steps will need to be completed. One of the most important certifications you can get is your foster home certification. Kulima Family Care Services can help you prepare for your adoption and home study with training and inspection information. Contact a member of our staff to begin your adoption process today!

foster family playing with kids

Finding a Home Study Provider

Finding a certified home study provider is critical to your success as a foster parent or adoptive parent. At Kulima Family Care Services, we put great importance and effort into providing foster children with a safe environment to grow and thrive. We are committed to serving the family, whether foster, adoptive, or biological, by providing step-by-step information to get you prepared for your home study.

Learn More From Kulima Care Family Services

Children are our future. It is important to provide quality foster care services including case management, client assessments, clinical support, parent training, and 24-hour crisis support to both our foster and adoptive parents. We understand becoming a foster parent or adopting a child can be overwhelming, but a home study is necessary for preparing your home for a child in need. Learn more about why you need a home certification study, and begin your fostering journey today!