Pre-Placement Evaluations for Independent Adoptions

Our Program

Canyon Acres provides Pre-Placement Evaluations for couples or singles already working with an Adoption Attorney. Our Pre-Placement Evaluations not only provide you with a document you can use for the finalization of your adoption but also provides you with training, resources and preparation for your journey through adoption.

California does not require prospective adoptive parents to complete a pre-placement evaluation if the couple is working with an attorney on an independent adoption; however, Canyon Acres believes it is better to assess the stability, appropriateness and safety of a home prior to placement. A pre-placement evaluation also allows trained and qualified social worker staff to provide education and support to the prospective adoptive parent(s). It is important for potential adoptive parents to understand that adoption is a life long process and to realize the importance and benefits of creating a healthy relationship with birth family members. A pre-placement evaluation may also provide birth parents with some peace of mind, knowing that the family has already been fingerprinted, through an assessment process, and completed trainings.

Pre-placement evaluations will be conducted in accordance with the agency adoption home study requirements and Title 22 regulations with the exception of mandatory training hours. Families completing a pre-placement evaluation will only be required to complete 18 hours of training as opposed to the 30 hours required by the Foster/Adoption Program.

Pre-placement evaluations shall be conducted prior to the placement of a child in the prospective adoptive parent’s home.

Our Services

• Pre-placement Evaluation: The evaluation is a family assessment completed using information you provide to us via questionnaires and interviews. An assessment is completed prior to the placement of children in your home.
  
• Social Worker Support: Canyon Acres Social Workers are available to provide support, resources, information.
  
• Pre-Certification Training: Canyon Acres provides 18 hours of training to all of our adoptive parents. Training topics include protecting and nurturing children, meeting children's developmental needs, and addressing developmental delays, supporting relationships between children and their families, working as a member of a professional team, life long adoption issues, positive discipline, rights and responsibilities, etc.
  
• Post-Certification Training Opportunities: Canyon Acres provides a variety of training opportunities for families throughout the year.
  
• Parent Support Groups (with childcare): Several times each year, Canyon Acres provides our families with opportunities to come together and share their ideas and experiences.

Evaluation Process

Step #1: Complete the Canyon Acres Registration Packet.
Step #2: Initial Home Study Interview is conducted.
Step #3: References are contacted and verified.
Step #4: Complete the Canyon Acres Application Packet.
Step #5: Live Scan fingerprinting, TB Test, and Physical Exam.
Step #6: Collect copies of the following documents:

• Home Owner or Renters Insurance
  
• Auto Insurance
  
• Auto Registration
  
• Drivers License
  
• DMV Printout
  
• Home Floor Plans
  
• Emergency Care and Disaster Plan
  
• Pet Licensees and Vaccinations
  
• Marriage License/ Divorce Decrees
  
• Birth Certificate or Social Security Card
  
• Military Discharge Papers
  
• Previous Adoption Decrees
  
• Income Verification
  

Step #7: Begin Pre-Certification Training (18 Hours)
Step #8: Individual Interviews
Step #9: Complete Adult, Child and Infant CPR, First Aid
Step # 10: Family Interview & Home Inspection (Safety Recommendations Made)

Once payment has been verified you will receive two original
signed copies of the Pre-Placement Assessment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Pre-placement Evaluation if I am working with an adoption attorney?
No, California does not require a pre-placement evaluation. However, Canyon Acres does believe that a pre-placement evaluation is beneficial for you and your relationship with your childs birth family. You will also still be required to apply for the adoption of a child placed in your home through the State. A representative from the California Department of Social Services' Adoptions Services Bureau will then conduct a family assessment following the placement of a child in your home.

What are the benefits of a Pre-placement Evaluation?
Canyon Acres not only provides you with your final written evaluation but through the process we provide support, information, referrals and training.

Is there a fee for a Pre-Placement Evaluation?
Yes, and it varies depending on if you are a single applicant or a couple. The fee is comparable to what the State Agency would charge if not slightly less expensive and we provide support, referrals, information and training.

For more information please call us at:
(888) 380-8832