What Is “Post Placement Supervision”? Why Do I/We Need This? What Is Finalization Like?
Most states require that you meet with and talk on the phone with your adoption social worker to discuss various aspects of the adoption adjustment over a period of time (usually six months), immediately following the placement. The goal is to help you with any issues that come up. These issues include your adjustment (translation: how you’re dealing with sleep deprivation), any health issues for the child, communication with birthparents, adjustment to work and responsiveness of family and community to your child. The period of time for post-placement supervision varies from state to state. Some states have a particularly abbreviated post-placement period (Kansas). Most require that the child be with you for six months before finalizing (e.g. Massachusetts and most other states). After the designated time period, the agency or your attorney can file the necessary paperwork in court and request a short hearing.
