There is an assessment process, which includes information about each individual’s personal background. This includes fingerprints and a criminal history check, as well as a CANTS (Child Abuse and Neglect Tracking System) check. Questions asked will include such things as physical and mental health history, family functioning, marital relationship, parenting, religious affiliation and your personal relationship with Christ, history of any types of abuse (alcohol, drug, sexual abuse, etc.), and financial obligations.

Training is required, which will be at least 6 clock hours. This may include Adopt Only or International Adoption training, depending upon your plans. You may opt to take the Foster/Adopt Pride, which is 27 hours if you think you might receive an older child or ever want to foster children.

There will be several meetings with individuals in the family, as well as joint interviews. At least one of these meetings must occur in the family’s home, at which time the house is inspected to meet standards for a safe environment for children, as required by Illinois law.