Adoption can be a wonderful way for both parents and children to create a loving family, all while providing the child with all the attention and support they need as they grow up. Potential adoptive parents, however, may have questions as to the steps they will need to take during the adoption process. The following information is for general informational purposes only, but should give you a basic understanding of the adoption process in Texas.
First of all, the prospective parents will need to go to a meeting that will cover the requirements necessary for adopting a child. An appointment is not needed to attend such a meeting.
If the prospective parents meet the necessary requirements for adoption, they will then meet with a Texas Department of Family and Prospective Services employee to discuss whether adopting a child is the best choice for their family. The DFPS employee will assess the prospective parents at this time.
Next, prospective parents will go through a training process called Parent Resource Information Development Education. Through PRIDE, prospective parents will receive more information about the children in need of adoption, as well as learn about the challenges in raising an adopted child. The parents will be assessed again at this time with regards to their ability to parent a child.
Finally, a family home study will be made. In a family home study, a caseworker will visit the prospective parents’ residence. They will discuss various topics, including child care experiences, family interests, personal history and what type of child would be a good fit for their family.
It is important for all these steps to be followed through, in order to successfully adopt a child. Those who have questions about adoption may want to talk the matter over with a professional, to ensure no crucial step is overlooked.
Source: dfps.state.tx.us, “Steps to Become a Foster/Adoptive Parent,” Accessed Oct. 13, 2014