Adopting a child can not only add stability and satisfaction to his life but also an amazing amount of joy, love and laughter to your family. At any given time there are countless children available for adoption around the world, kids whose burning desire is simply to be part of a forever family. While only the details of a U.S. state-run adoption are specified here, rules may differ depending on whether your adoption is achieved according to international, private or agency-specific policy.
Step 1
Complete and present, to the appropriate agency, all paperwork required of you in officializing your intention to adopt. To apply in the State of Oregon, for instance, the Department of Human Services demands that you produce a thorough medical and physical history, criminal background check--including any reports of child abuse--and up to five reputable references. All references are actually sent an intensive questionnaire, asking their opinions on each parent's individual character and how you both relate as a couple. You must also give a full account of your family's current financial condition, including income statements, expense ledger and a list of all liabilities.
Step 2
Complete all required parenting classes, During this period of instruction, you will likely be informed that many children available for adoption have been exposed to abuse and/or neglect. This is to prepare you for the potential challenges that may come when adopting and help you decide if this is something you wish to do. Qualified teachers will attempt to educate you about the symptoms that commonly arise due to early psychological or emotional injury.
Step 3
Schedule a physical examination for each adoptive parent. A prospective parent must prove herself physically healthy and able-bodied enough to provide whatever care and energy a young child may require.
Step 4
Examine the home study policy, as required by your state. Home study is a process in which a licensed social worker will enter your home in order to assess the state of your residence and current family dynamic. This is done primarily to make sure that the home is safely situated to accommodate a child in need. The evaluator will also determine whether you have the total income necessary to continue supporting your family, along with the needs of another person. The process is exhaustive and lengthy and will take several visits to complete. The worker assigned to your case will evaluate the views and attitudes of every individual living in the home, each person's daily routine and the overall family dynamic. Even the temperament of all household animals will be under question.
Step 5
Set up a meeting with your social worker after you have been approved to adopt. From her, you will obtain a picture-book of waiting children. With each picture is a profile of the child, along with a snapshot of her history and any relevant behavioral issues. You may pick several that you believe fit your preferences. Your picks will then go before a committee that will decide if any child is a proper match for your family. You will likely be place in contention with two other families for the same child. The committee will determine which family best matches the child's needs.
Step 6
Wait for contact from the appropriate agency. The worker may have to visit your home several times before adoption is finalized. This is an adjustment period, for the child and your family. Everything is eventually finalized, in court, by a judge. The state will typically pay for all attorney and court costs accrued.
Tips and Warnings
- You can choose to adopt a child of any age or race, and decide if you wish to accept a group of siblings or not. Some states offer financial assistance for adoptive parents who have accepted a child through the government foster care system. If you adopt through state-run foster care, you can choose to participate in an open adoption, meaning that the biological parents may be granted contact, as well as pictures and updates throughout the year.
- Many kids may have special needs or attachment issues and may require extra time, attention, money or therapy
Things You'll Need
- Proof of income
- Log of monthly household expenses
