Getting Your Home Study 

The home study is a critical step in the adoption process—one that many prospective adoptive parents find unfamiliar at first. While it’s common to feel some anxiety about this step, it’s ultimately designed to support and prepare families to provide a safe, loving environment for a child. It’s also an opportunity to reflect on your parenting approach, assess your home’s safety, and build a collaborative relationship with adoption professionals.

Below, we walk through the essential components of the home study process, with guidance tailored to families adopting in Wisconsin.

Connect with an Adoption Professional

Before beginning the home study, prospective adoptive parents should consult with a Licensed Wisconsin Adoption Agency. In Wisconsin, every adoption—whether domestic, international, or foster care—requires a completed and approved home study conducted by a professional authorized to practice in the state.

At this stage, your adoption professional will help you understand the timeline, documentation, training requirements, and fees associated with the process. Agencies like Adoption Choice, Inc. are here to walk you through every step and answer any questions you may have.

Understand Wisconsin Requirements and Prepare Your Home

Once you’re working with a professional, you’ll receive a checklist of Wisconsin state-specific requirements to ensure your home meets safety standards. In Wisconsin, this can include: items such as a designated sleeping area with a window and proper egress, fire extinguishers on each floor, working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, safe storage of medications and hazardous materials.

If your home does not meet one or more of these standards, you will have the opportunity to make corrections or improvements. These requirements are not intended to be burdensome—they are designed to ensure a child’s safety and well-being.

Complete Required Training and Gather Documentation

In Wisconsin, adoptive parents are required to complete at least 25 hours of pre-adoption training, which covers topics such as trauma-informed care, open adoption, and transracial parenting. Your adoption agency will provide access to these trainings or direct you to approved providers.

At the same time, you will be asked to compile a packet of documentation. This includes items such as; Financial records (e.g., recent tax returns or income statements), medical statements confirming your physical and mental readiness to parent, background checks and fingerprinting for all adult household members, personal reference, autobiographical statements reflecting on your background and parenting goals.

This phase may feel paperwork-heavy, but your agency will provide guidance and templates to help you stay organized.

Participate in Interviews and Home Visits

As part of your home study process, an adoption professional will conduct home visits and interviews. These typically include: A walk-through of your home to verify safety measures, individual and joint interviews with each adoptive parent, discussions about your family history, parenting philosophy, and expectations for adoption.

This is not a test—it’s a chance for your social worker to get to know you and ensure that your home environment is a good fit for a child. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask questions and receive advice on how to prepare for placement.

Final Review and Home Study Report

Once all steps are completed, your social worker will compile a comprehensive report summarizing your family background, household readiness, and overall assessment. This report is used by agencies, courts, and other authorities to confirm your eligibility to adopt.

Once approved, your home study is typically valid for one year and can be updated if needed.

Stay Informed, Stay Supported – We’re Here to Help

While the home study process may seem complex at first, it becomes manageable when broken down into steps—and you’re never expected to do it alone. At Adoption Choice, Inc., we provide experienced guidance, checklists, and ongoing support to help you move forward with confidence.

If you have questions, we encourage you to reach out. Our team is here to assist families across Wisconsin with every aspect of adoption.