Home Studies

The professionals at Adoptive Families for Children understand the complex and emotional journey on which you may be about to embark and will work with you to complete the home study process. We look forward to helping you through this portion of your adoption experience.

Home studies gather information about you and your family in order to ensure the best possible match for both you and your prospective child. This information ranges from being as simple as telling us where you were born and about your occupation, to more detailed information, such as why you are considering adoption, your family’s history, your medical history and financial information. Think of it as a biography on your family being written by an adoption caseworker.

In order for us to complete an accurate home study, we need to get to know you and your family. We understand that the home study process can feel a bit overwhelming and personal and, while we will always do our best to help you feel comfortable, understand that this information is required by the State of New Hampshire for all prospective adoptive families.

Some Things You Can Expect To Provide

References – You will need to provide a list of five personal references whom you have known for at least two years. One reference should be a relative; the other four should be non-relatives.

Financial Information – You will need to provide information regarding your finances, including your tax return for the previous year.

Medical Information – You will need to provide a medical statement from a licensed physician, a physician’s assistant, or a nurse practitioner. The medical statement must be based on an examination within 12 months of the date of the application.

State Police Criminal Check – Each person living in your household who is 18 years old or older must complete a State Police Criminal Background Check.

Child Abuse Check – Each person living in your household who is 18 years old or older must complete a Child Abuse Check. New Hampshire’s Division of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) will conduct a name search to determine if you are listed on the State’s child abuse and neglect central registry.