What are the differences between a home study and post-placement visits?

A home study is an evaluation of prospective adoptive parents conducted by a licensed social worker, usually through interviews and home visits. The home study assesses the parents’ ability to provide a safe and healthy home for a child and determines whether they are suitable to adopt. It is required for all types of adoptions in Virginia. Post-placement visits are required for private adoptions to ensure the safety and well-being of the child. Post-placement visits are conducted by a social worker to monitor the child’s progress in the adoptive home and make sure their needs are being met. The social worker will typically talk to the adoptive family, review medical records, and observe the child. The post-placement visit is conducted within two weeks of placement and additional visits may be required every six months for up to one year. The home study and post-placement visits are distinct but related processes that are necessary to ensure that children are placed in a safe and healthy environment. The home study evaluates prospective adoptive parents, while post-placement visits evaluate the parent-child bond and ensure the child’s needs are being met. Both are required by law in Virginia in order to complete the adoption process.

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