7 Tips for Preparing for your Home Study

19 December 2018

The adoption process is filled with wonder, excitement, and anxiety. Oh yeah, and there are some stressful moments sprinkled in too. Perhaps none more sweat inducing than the home study.

The adoption home study is a process that anyone who adopts has to go through, and it’s definitely an intimidating time in the process, but try not to let that get you down. Sure, home studies are a big deal, and they do play a large role in whether or not you qualify to adopt a child.

Here are some tips for handling your home study.

Get Started on the Paperwork:

Paperwork sucks! You know it, I know it, everybody knows it – and the adoption process is loaded with it; from emergency plans to parenting plans, and a host of other stuff. It’s tedious, it’s frustrating, and it can be downright dull. But it’s necessary.

Calm Down:

It’s easy to get worked up during this process, especially knowing that this could be the deciding factor in your approval. But don’t get yourself worked up over this. Home studies are nothing more than a routine part of the process. They aren’t meant to find a reason NOT to have you approved, and there really isn’t much to worry about here. Besides, your adoption agency is going to let you know everything you need to have for a successful home study.

Follow the Checklist:

Before your home study begins, your adoption agency will give you a checklist to follow. This will probably consist of things like; background checks, birth certificates (of all occupants), and parenting plan statement to name a few.

You will also be given a list of things that should have completed before the agent comes out to your house to conduct the study. Be sure to address everything on that checklist; if it weren’t important, then it wouldn’t be on the list. Nothing is okay to overlook.

Be Yourself:

I’m always reminded of the episode of Friends “The One with the Home Study” where Chandler and Monica wanted their social worker to like them so badly they were even willing to throw Joey under the bus. Like any good 90’s sitcom, it blew up in there faces and hilarity ensued. But again, like any good 90’s sitcom, it all worked out in the end. Still, there is a lesson to be learned here. Just be you.

It’s easy to want to embellish in these situations, whether it finances, or even just your overall lives. Don’t! Your social worker wants to get to know who you are individually, and as a family and it’s imperative that you’re honest. The fastest way to fail your home study is to lie on your paperwork or during your home study.

Safety:

Before you’re social worker gets to your home, make sure everything is tidy – cleanliness is always important. You should also be sure to have all of your cabinets locked and keep anything that is a potential hazard out of a child’s reach. If you have firearms, ensure that they are secured in an out of reach safe.

You’ll also want to make sure that all of your smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers are in working condition and appropriately placed throughout the home. Oh, and you’ll want to make sure you have a first-aid kit in your house.

Have the Room Ready:

This isn’t a necessity, but if you know that you want a baby then go ahead and set-up the room that the baby is going to be sleeping in. Not only will it show that you have enough space for your new addition, but it will also show that you are dedicated to giving your new child everything they need.

You’ll do Great:

The home study can be a scary thing, and it’s okay to be nervous, it shows you care. Just stay calm, be yourselves, and follow the checklist exactly, and you’ll be well on your way to having a baby placed with you.

Don’t worry; you’ll do great!

Read Also:

Content Rally

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

View all posts

Budget Friendly Home Improvement Hacks To Save Your Pockets

Home improvement is a big deal now, with more people embracing their creativity and letting it show in the places they live. This has led to the rise of incredible trends and hacks that provide the perfect opportunity for people to work in their homes. However, with all this development, it also gets confusing and daunting for some people. This is mainly because they have no idea where to start or some of the hacks they can include in different areas. These hacks are meant to be easily doable tasks that will transform your space when implemented. We’ve categorized these hacks in terms of placement and application. Some of them include: Floors In the home, floors play a big role in how the home looks and the general style you’ll be working with. A few tweaks here and there can completely change the look of your floors and add style and character. Some of the most versatile hacks to include for your flooring include: Peel And Stick Tiles When it comes to finding the perfect flooring for that annoying red floor or just need a new look, peel and stick tiles will do the trick. These tiles are amazing given that you can easily install them yourself. They are designed to give off the illusion of regular tiles without having to deal with grout, glue, and other tedious processes. You can get them in different colors, styles, and patterns making them the perfect option. Replacing Your Tile Grout When dealing with tiles for your flooring, you may find that the grout may get stained and turn to a different color which becomes hard to clean. However, you have the option of replacing the grout with a new one in the same color or a different one. Adding A New Finish This is especially a great idea if you are dealing with wooden flooring. With this, it is easier to add a new finish when needed to give the floors a new and vibrant look. Lighting One of the most understated hacks is the ability to switch out your light fixtures and improve the overall look significantly. Most people don’t know what role lighting plays in your space. You need to improve your lighting situation, which will give your space more life. To make it more appealing, consider getting light fixtures that feature some detail and a unique design. Additionally, you could also include under-cabinet lighting for your kitchen featuring the use of custom led lights. You also have the option of choosing to go with statement chandeliers, floor lamps, wall lights, and pendant lights among others. When it comes to lighting, you are spoilt for choice and can easily improve your space. Walls Adding some style to your walls is another great way to improve the overall look of your home. For this, you have a few options to choose from that are easy to work with and get quality results. They include: Adding a Fresh Coat of Paint Paint is a great easy way to get a different look when working on your walls. With this, you have the option of working with a variety of colors depending on the vibe you are going for. Additionally, you could paint one wall a different color and have that as your accent wall. This will improve the look of your room significantly. Adding A Wallpaper Wallpapers provide a layout, especially if you don’t want to do a paint job on your walls. They come in different types, patterns, and designs to ensure that they cater to everyone’s needs. With this, you can choose to cover all your walls or use them on one wall that will serve as your accent wall. Hanging Art Art is another great way to bring your taste and style into your home. For this, you can create your art piece or purchase one made by another artist. Entryway When it comes to your entryway, the first thing you need to consider is your storage options. Once you get into the house, where do your shoes, bag, coat, and keys go? Having a station where all these items can be kept will keep the home tidy and add a great design aspect to your space. Additionally, you can also add other decor items to make your entryway arrangement more visually appealing. Patio When it comes to dealing with the outdoors, one of the most effective ways to change it is by adding a seating area. Be creative with this and go for something that portrays who you are. Don’t be too rigid and only stick to what’s normal. Find what works for you and add it to your space. Play around with colors and create a cozy space to relax with family and friends. Greenery Adding some green aspects to your home is an amazing way to improve the look and add some character. The best part about adding greenery to your space is that it will help improve air circulation. When working with greenery, you need to take the time to water them to ensure they are healthy at all times. You could also opt for fake plants, given that they will add the same look and style. Adding Budget-Friendly Feng-Shi To Home-Decor Are you looking to bring more balance and good vibes into your home without breaking the bank? Feng Shui is all about creating harmony in your living space, and you don’t need to spend a fortune to make it happen. With just a few budget-friendly changes, you can invite positive energy, or "Chi," into your home and make it a calming, welcoming space. Clear The Clutter The first and easiest Feng Shui tip: declutter! It’s amazing how much difference a tidy room can make. When you get rid of the excess, you’re not only creating physical space, but you're also allowing the energy to flow freely. Take a walk around your home and ask yourself: Do I really need this? Less clutter equals more clarity and positive energy. Maximize Natural Light Good lighting is key to great Feng Shui. Natural light boosts the energy in any room, so open up those curtains and let the sunlight pour in. If you’re working in a space that doesn’t get much natural light, don’t worry. You can place mirrors strategically to reflect and amplify what little sunlight you have. Mirrors are like energy boosters! Bring in Some Green Plants are a staple in Feng Shui. They not only clean the air but also represent life, growth, and vitality. Even a small potted plant can make a huge difference. If you’re not exactly a plant person (hello, brown thumbs!), opt for easy-to-care-for plants like succulents or snake plants. And don’t worry; artificial plants can also work if they look realistic. Use Soft, Calming Colors You don’t need to repaint your entire house to improve the flow of energy. Start by adding calming colors like soft greens, blues, or neutrals in small touches, think cushions, throws, or wall art. These tones promote peace and relaxation, which is exactly what you want in a balanced space. Arrange Furniture With Intention Did you know that where you place your furniture can affect the energy in a room? Try to arrange your furniture so that you can see the door from where you’re sitting or sleeping. It promotes a feeling of safety and control. Plus, don’t block pathways with furniture, as it interrupts the flow of energy. Ready to try it out? Let Feng Shui transform your space! Improve Your Living Space! Investing in your home and interior design is essential to ensure that you are content with your living space. This is something you can do by implementing a few hacks here and there. Take your time to go through them and add them to your space one at a time. Transformation is a gradual process which means you’ll need to keep at it until you get to your desired outcome. Read Also: How To Increase The Value Of Your Home Important Things to Know Before Starting a Home Improvement Project Home Sweet Home Improvement: How to Find the Best Home Improvement Loans

7 Ways to Clean Blocked Drains in Your Home

The drains in your home really do take a lot of abuse. Not only are things sometimes accidentally flushed down toilets and drains, but they also naturally collect all of the dust, hair, and whatever else is in the air. Over time, your pipes are bound to get clogged at some point.Clean Blocked Drains cxan make things work for you in all the aspects. Of course, a plumber can clear out a clog in a snap. But, here are seven things that you can try on your own first without using harsh chemicals which could harm your pipes. 7 Ways to Clean Blocked Drains in Your Home: 1. Find the clog: It might not be that deep. In a toilet, it's generally somewhere in the base. And, in sinks, it's often in the trap underneath it where hair and other debris will settle. There are a few different tools that you can use to attack the clog from the outside of the drain. Trap cleaner: You can find one at your local hardware store. It's usually made of plastic and is about the length of your arm. It has ridges along the sides and is designed to fit inside of your drain. You can use it to fish out anything that might be clogging the trap. Drain snake: It's the same idea as the trap cleaner, only it's longer and has a hose that rolls up, so it can get to clogs that may be deeper inside of the drains. Wire coat hanger: In a pinch? Just grab a wire coat hanger, unwind it, fashion it into a long hook, and use it to clear the trap. 2. Use a plunger: It's a basic home necessity for toilets. And, it can also be used for sinks. All you need is a solid suction and you may get the same results on a sink drain that you would with a toilet. In a sink, it might help to have a little standing water while you are plunging. 3. Dish Detergent: You can use it in toilets and sink drains. Pour it straight down the drain or into the toilet, about a quarter of a cup. The detergent will settle on the clog, and start to break it down. Let it sit for a few hours, run some hot water, and try plunging. The soap is sometimes strong enough to break up the clog. 4. Boiling Water: This would be more effective for a sink drain. Pouring boiling water directly down the drain could break up the clog. You could add boiling water, wait a few minutes, try plunging, and repeat the process a couple of times, if necessary. Just make sure the water isn't still boiling while you are plunging to protect yourself from any scalding. 5. Use a wet/dry vac: Wet/dry vacs are great for many purposes, including clearing clogs in your drain. If the clog isn't too deep, you can use it to either pull the clog out or push it down the drain. It's a good idea to try to pull it out first to remove the clog from your plumbing system. But, sometimes pushing it will also clear the clog and allow it to drain. 6. Clean the trap: If you are dealing with a clogged sink, you can usually access the trap underneath the drain. Most likely, that's where the clog will be. If you're handy with home repairs, here's a quick how-to. You'll need a plumber's wrench. Have a bucket underneath to catch the water. Unscrew the fittings on the top and bottom of the trap. Remove the trap and clean it out. An old toothbrush is perfect. Clean out the surrounding pipes. Put it back together. A plumbing company such as Red Dog knows all about unblocking drains so if you are not confident taking apart the pipes in the drain, it may be worth hiring a professional. 7. DIY Clog-removing Recipes: You may actually have a few things in your pantry that can be used to clear up clogged drains. Here a few different ideas that you can try before calling a plumber. Mix salt and baking soda: Combine equal parts of salt and baking soda, maybe a half-cup of each. Pour it directly into the clogged drain, and let it sit for a few minutes. The salt and baking soda will settle on the clog and start to eat away at parts of it. Then, pour boiling water down the drain. If there is standing water in the sink, you can also include plunging the drain in the process to get things moving around. Combine baking soda and vinegar: Mix together equal parts of white vinegar and baking soda, maybe a half-cup of each. Stand over the sink when you mix them. The reaction of the two substances will result in an almost immediate fizz. Pour everything down the drain. This one is best to let sit for a few hours or overnight. Afterward, try rinsing the drain with hot water. Sodium Hydroxide: More commonly known as caustic soda, you can find it at your local hardware store if you don't already have it on hand. You will mix 3 cups of soda with about a gallon of water. The mixture will get warmer and begin to fizz. Pour all of it directly into the drain. Wait for a half-hour or so, and pour boiling water down the drain. If it seems a little better, but still draining slowly, you can repeat the process. Unfortunately, some clogs are either too deep or too intense for any of these home remedies. If you've tried everything, and you just can't seem to get that clog cleared on your own, give Brisbane Drain Cleaning by Conrad Martens a call today. Our team of dedicated service professionals will quickly assess your individual circumstances and easily get your drains cleared. Let us show you have we've built our reputation of providing dependable service focused on quality of workmanship to the entire Brisbane area since 1982. Read Also: 8 Plumbing Myths Busted 3 Reasons Why Business Organizations Need To Get The Drains Cleaned Regularly

5 Best Type of Plumbing Pipe

Because all plumbing jobs have different risks and requirements, pipe manufacturers make a variety of products for specific maintenance and repair situations. If you select a proper pipe, you'll less likely experience leaks, flooding, and other plumbing problems after all of your fixtures are operational. Make use of the best plumbing pipe that can work well in your favor. At local hardware stores, you'll find many plumbing pipes that can distribute water and process waste. However, if you're looking for the best option for a bathroom or kitchen, there are five pipes that are worth considering. PEX Pipes: PEX piping is one of the most popular options for traditional jobs. They can supply water to various fixtures around a home or building. The housing is very rigid and strong, so these pipes can handle intense pressure from a water supply. It is one of the best plumbing pipe to make things easier for you. It is one of the best plumbing pipe that you can look for. Pros: Thanks to the color-coded designs, you can easily identify pipes for hot and cold water. The cold pipes are blue, and the hot water pipes are red. Every PEX pipe is easy to cut during installation jobs. If a pipe doesn't fit, you can make adjustments by taking advantage of its 90-degree curves. Cons: You can't use PEX pipes with push-fit fittings because leaking may occur. When a pipe breaks and leaks, you can't recycle it. PVC Pipes: PVC pipes are built for drainage and venting jobs. Many plumbers work with these pipes because they're light and simple to use. The big advantage is that PVC piping is easy to cut. You can slice through the product quickly with a hacksaw. Whenever you need to secure PVC pipes together to extend the lines, you can connect them using solvents. Pros: All PVC pipes are inexpensive, and they're great cost-efficient options for irrigation projects. If you ever need to bend a pipe, you can arch its flexible housing. Cons: PVC pipes are only great for simple jobs because they have fragile housing. You can't apply glue on PVC pipes since water may leak through the seal. Ridged Copper Pipes: Ridged copper pipes are also made for water supply in a home, and you can also cut them using a hacksaw. In order to connect a riged copper pipe, you'll need to use a soldering device. Many home builders and commercial building contractors rely on these particular pipes when they design plumbing systems because copper distributes drinking water without contaminating it. Pros: A ridged copper pipe can handle high heat well. It can also withstand intense water pressure. When you no longer need a riged copper pipe, you can easily recycle it. Cons: If you don't have great plumbing skills, the process of connecting ridged pipes with soldering equipment may be challenging. Also, you'll need to set aside plenty of cash to buy ridged pipes since they're expensive. ABS Pipes: ABS pipes are commonly used during jobs that involve drains and vents. These pipes and PVC pipes have similar characteristics. However, the big difference is that ABS pipes have a black housing that's somewhat softer. Pros: If you need great pipes for underground plumbing systems, ABS pipes are ideal options since they're durable and strong. When the temperature drops outdoors, ABS pipes won't break because their housing is engineered for cold weather. Cons: You'll need to use ABS pipes in some locations wisely according to the building code. Also, you must pick the installation zones strategically since high temperatures can cause warping. Flexible Copper Pipes: These pipes are built for sinks, fridges, and water heaters. You can bend them to establish a secure connection during installation jobs, and you can cut them very easily with a sharp hacksaw. Pros: Flexible copper pipes will fit snugly in tight spaces. They can also handle high heat that builds up in confined areas. It is one of the best plumbing pipe that you can look for at your end. Cons: You must handle flexible copper pipes with care to avoid breaking them. Another disadvantage is that the pipes are expensive. Winter Protection Strategies for the Best Plumbing Pipe: After you have proper pipes for a job, you'll need to implement procedures to protect them. Winter is a time when most pipes are damaged. As water freezes in a line, pressure builds up, and the intensity of the expanding ice can crack or break a pipe that isn't properly protected. By following a few simple steps, you'll maintain and protect your pipes whenever the temperature dramatically drops in your neighborhood. Insulation can create a barrier that blocks icy air around your pipes. When applying insulation onto thick or thin pipes, ensure that there are no gaps because air can seep through any opening. Plastic pipes are more vulnerable than copper pipes, so they will need extra protection before a harsh winter storm. Indoor pipes will also need protection against cold weather. You can keep arctic air away from vulnerable pipes underneath kitchen and bathroom fixtures by sealing cracks around your home. Caulking and spray foam is the best sealants for large cracks around doors and windows. Heaters, furnaces, and other heat sources can protect vulnerable indoor pipes as well. To achieve the best results, use indoor heat sources throughout the night because the coldest temperatures occur long after the sun sets. These five piping materials are great options for general residential and commercial projects, and you can protect each product using insulation, sealants, and heat sources throughout the winter. However, along the way, you may need professional help with an installation or maintenance routine. When this happens, always work with a professional plumbing company, such as Conrad Martens Plumbing. Read Also: 8 Plumbing Myths Busted Asphalt Pavement Maintenance Tips 5 Important Tools For Pipe Recovery Operations

7 Tips for Preparing for your Home Study

Get Started on the Paperwork:

Calm Down:

Follow the Checklist:

Be Yourself:

Safety:

Have the Room Ready:

You’ll do Great:

Advantages Of Using A Water Heater At Home

7 Benefits of a Clean and Decluttered Workspace

Content Rally

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

Leave a Reply

Popular

Technologies For Creating A Startup Idea

How to Download Facebook Videos on Android?

7 Rules of Effective Ecommerce Web Design

The 10 WordPress Plugins Every Sucessful Blogger Uses

Follow Us

Recent

Cybersecurity Threats In Asset Tracking And Strategies To Mitigate

How To Invest In Yourself For A Stress-Free Daily Life

How Many Jobs Are Available in Consumer Services in 2024?

Top 9 Signs You Will Get The Job After Interview

Related

Budget Friendly Home Improvement Hacks To Save Your Pockets

7 Ways to Clean Blocked Drains in Your Home

5 Best Type of Plumbing Pipe

7 Tips for Preparing for your Home Study

Get Started on the Paperwork:

Calm Down:

Follow the Checklist:

Be Yourself:

Safety:

Have the Room Ready:

You’ll do Great:

Share this Article

Advantages Of Using A Water Heater At Home

7 Benefits of a Clean and Decluttered Workspace

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

Leave a Reply

Popular

Follow Us

Recent

Related