In recent months the Russian Federation increased their requirements for prospective adoptive parents regarding the training that families receive prior to their second (court) trip. This includes families having 30 face to face hours of training. America World Adoption recently had a staff member become trained and certified by a program offered through the University of Pittsburgh’s Office of Child Development which is designed to comply with Russia’s new training requirements.
Please click on the questions below to learn more about the training course.
Will this training cover all the topics that are required by Russia?
This training was designed by the University of Pittsburgh to cover 12 of the 13 required topics. The only topic not covered in this training is the issue of Russian law pertaining to adoption. Families will complete a separate online training required by the University of Pittsburgh to meet this requirement.
Will this training cover all the required training hours for Russia?
Different regions and judges will determine the number of training hours required for adoptive families. We have heard this will range from 30 – 80 hours of training. This course was designed to cover all the required topics and provide for the required face to face training. For families who require more than 30 hours, we have other training opportunities which can help families fulfill this requirement.
Does it have to be in person? Why can’t we do this via Skype, webinar or conference call?
Yes, this training course has to be done in person to meet Russia’s requirements. The University of Pittsburgh’s course specifically states that trainers may not use Skype or other online webinar tools to provide “face to face” training.
What if the training schedule doesn’t work with our schedule?
Our hope is to offer this training on a regular basis, at least once a quarter or as needed for families. Families may email regarding future scheduling of these trainings.
May I do this training if I’m not adopting through your agency? What if I’m not adopting from Russia?
Yes; this training opportunity is open to any interested family regardless of the placing agency. We are closely following the guidelines set by Russia for this training, though much of the training is applicable to families adopting from other countries, too.
How much will this training cost?
1 couple: $1,200 per couple
2 -4 couples: $750 per couple
5+ couples: $650 per coupleIn addition to the costs for this training, families will need to take the online Russian Adoption Law course ($250/individual) and an online test through the University of Pittsburgh ($350/individual) in order to obtain the required certificate. These additional components will total $1,200 per couple. These are third party costs that we have no control over. To make a payment, go to our online payment page and select "Russia Adoptive Parent Training" from the drop-down list.
What is the best way to contact your office regarding this training?
Email russiatraining@awaa.org or call 703-356-8447 and ask to speak with Ryan or Johnna.
