Who must prepare a child for adoption?

• A. The adoptive parents
• B. The court clerk
• C. The child’s guardian ad litem
• D. A person meeting the qualifications of child placement staff or child placement management staff

Answer: (D)

The task of preparing a child for adoption is carried out by a qualified child placement professional. These staff are trained and authorized to conduct adoption preparation, ensuring the child understands what adoption means, addressing questions and fears, and guiding them through the transition in a developmentally appropriate way. They coordinate with the adoptive family and the court to make sure all legal and emotional aspects are properly handled, following regulatory requirements.

Guardians ad litem advocate for the child’s best interests in court but do not perform the routine preparation activities. Court clerks handle court documents and records, not preparation of the child for adoption. Adoptive parents are the recipients and facilitators of care, but the formal preparation work is done by the licensed or qualified child placement staff or management staff.