What are post placement reports?
Most countries require post-placement reports to be submitted after their child has been adopted and has lived with their adoptive families. The reports need to be written by a licensed social worker and will include information on the child's physical and emotional development as well as a summary of their progress or issues of adjustment that they may be dealing with. The report also includes 10-15 pictures of the child that represent their new life as a member of your family.
The number of required post-placement reports is determined by the country of adoption. Please view Adoption ARK's Post-Placement Requirement Chart for the number and frequency of post-placement reports by country.
Why are post placement reports important?
The importance of post placement reports cannot be overstated. They are vital to the future of adoption. The reports provide the child's birth country with vital information on the child's development and progress in adjusting to his or her new family and country. Adoption officials and political leaders from the country are able to keep a record of the child's adjustment and information stating that they are receiving appropriate care and protection from their new parents.
The refusal of parents to submit post placement reports have caused the slow down or in some cases the shut down of adoptions from certain countries. Parents who do not complete and submit their post placement reports put other parents in jeopardy of completing their adoptions. The U.S. State Department strongly urges parents to comply with their child's birth country's post placement requirements.
Adoption ARK requires parents to comply with post-placement regulations in our adoption agreement.
Will post placement reports jeopardize my adoption?
NO, your report will not effect your adoption in any manner; just the opposite is true. Not turning in a report sends a signal to the agency and the birth country that something may be wrong and trying to be concealed. If you are having issues with your child or having difficulty with adjustments yourself, we strongly encourage you to contact us so we may assist you in finding the appropriate help you need for you and your child. Remember, adoption is a process that doesn't end when the child comes home. Many parents experience varying degrees of adjustment issues and we are here to help you.