Glossary of Terms Before you make a decision to adopt a foster child, it is important to understand the words most commonly used in the process. Adoption The permanent legal agreement to raise a child born from another person, as your own. Foster-to-Adopt The care of a child for whom the goal is “Termination of Parental Rights,” for whom there is no identified placement. The child remains with the family adjusting to the placement, while at the same time proceedings take place to coordinate the legal release for adoption. Termination of Parental Rights (TPR) A decision ordered by a judge as a result of abuse, neglect, or abandonment. Special Needs Child (as defined in Florida) A Caucasian child who is 8 years of age or older An African American or biracial child of any age. A sibling group of any race, any age adopted together. A child with a diagnosis of physical, mental, or emotional handicap. MAPP training A 10 session program designed to address the needs of prospective adoptive parents, inform about the needs of the children available for adoption, and prepare the family to manage challenging behaviors. This training provides a secure place to discuss concerns regarding adoption or fostering-to-adopt, and helps families make the final decision. Home Study A legal document that describes the composition of your family, personal, marriage and family history. It states sleeping arrangements within the home, neighborhood and facilities in your community. It also addresses your employment history, present financial status, background screening and strengths and needs with regard to parenting issues. Child Study A legal document that describes the child in terms of strengths and needs. Information is presented regarding the medical, academic, mental heath, social and family history of the child. Adoption placement A written statement between the family and Florida’s Department of Children and Families (DCF). The family agrees to receive the child in their home for the purpose of adoption and to provide, medical, educational and emotional care for the child. Medicaid title 4-E Adoption Special Needs Children adopted through the state system are covered by Medicaid Health coverage. Subsidy Monthly stipend that the family adopting a special needs child receives until the child turns 18 years of age. Consent to Adoption A legal document filed with the court by CHARLEE authorizing the adoption of the child by the family. Petition of adoption A legal document filed in court and signed by the parents, petitioning the court for a permanent commitment. The petition also contains the new name of the child if the family, the agency and the child, (who is deemed old enough) agree on the change. Adoption finalization A legal procedure before a judge that orders the child adopted by the family Final Judgment of Adoption A court order document that commits the child permanently to the parents. It contains the new name of the child and the name of the parents. Prospective parents with an approved home study can fax their studies to CHARLEE Adoptions Unit: ( 305) 665-7369 Prospective parents with no approved home study should call CHARLEE’s Adoption Unit at (305) 668-7200. You can speak to an adoptions representative or make an appointment to attend an upcoming orientation session. If you would like to proceed, the next step is to sign up for a MAPP Training session.