Whether you are experiencing infertility, are a same sex couple, or just wish to expand your family through infant adoption, there are many reasons why adoption might be the best option for you. However, there may also be reasons why adoption might not be the best option.
Adoption is a permanent proposition that requires a lifelong commitment by everyone involved. For this reason, it is imperative that you explore your own reasons for wanting to adopt, and not only the question of whether adoption is right for you, but also if you are right for adoption.
Before you decide to adopt, be sure that you are able and ready to give this child the love and attention that he or she deserves. In the end, adoption can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life! Consider the following aspects of your life before making the decision to adopt.
Finances: One of the first things adoptive parents realize when embarking on the adoption process are the accompanying adoption costs. So, ask yourself; where do you stand financially? Where do you see yourself in the next 5, 10 or 15 years? No one can predict the future, but when considering domestic infant adoption, you want to make sure that you have the financial stability to support an additional human life. Carefully assess your spending habits and distinguish where a child falls into those habits. If you need to cut back, how will you do it? If you or your spouse or partner were to lose their job, would you have the funds to maintain your current lifestyle?
Emotions: Adopting an infant can be an emotional roller coaster - especially when the idea is still in the works. The most important emotions to tackle are obviously those of you and your partner (if you are in a relationship) and ensure you are both on the same page with your decision to adopt. Assess your overall feelings about adoption, and how it will positively impact and change your life. If there are any hesitations at all, now may not be the right time to begin your adoption journey.
Relationship Status: Many birthmothers believe that their child deserves to be raised in a two-parent household. Whether your household is two mothers, two fathers or a mother and a father, you want to be sure that each person will be involved in the child’s life for the long haul. As mentioned above, no one can predict the future, but if there are still flaws that need to be worked out within your relationship (and no relationship is perfect) that should be handled before adopting.
Time: How much free time do you have in your life to devote to raising a child? Amidst the excitement, one thing that prospective parents forget to take into account is how much work it is to take care of a child. Do you work full time or part time? Do you work from home, or would it be possible to do so if your child was sick or needed extra care? Are you involved in any clubs or activities that require you to be away from home? Create a game plan with your partner and discuss who could be where at what time, and make sure you can cover all bases.
At the end of the day, infant adoption is a wonderful and life changing experience. LifeLong Adoptions hopes to send as many children home with loving families as possible, and is excited to help you through your adoption journey. We can even assist you in evaluating your lifestyle to help you decide if now is the right time to adopt. Good luck, and we hope to hear from you soon!
