The adoption process can be both joyful and stressful at the same time. To reduce stress and anxiety it is important to be prepared for everything. At first, you should consider talking to someone who has already been through everything and wants to share their story with you. You can ask your agency for references or some parents who have already adopted or just reach out to people through a variety of forums, blogs, or support groups.
Deciding to Adopt
Before you even start the process just ask yourself once more if this is the right decision for you. Discuss your thoughts openly with your partner, friends, and family. You have to be sure that you are able to provide your child with everything he or she might need.
Research
As you decide whether being an adoptive parent is right for you, you will want to find out as much information as possible about the nature of adoption. There is a lot you can do to begin understanding the road ahead of you. Try reading books about adoption, visit adoption agency websites, and browse other adoptive parents’ blogs and adoption profiles.
Know How You Want to Adopt
Before starting the process, think about what type of child you would like to adopt, a newborn, infant, toddler, or older child. Decide whether you'd like to adopt domestically or internationally. If you already have children, include them in the adoption discussion and process, and acknowledge their feelings.
Research Adoption Agencies
There are so many adoption agencies out there, and you need to be prepared before you choose one that is going to suit you and your family best. When adopting domestically, there are three paths you can take. The first is a fully open adoption, which means there is going to be significant communication between you and birth parents. You can also choose a semi-open adoption, with varying degrees of openness. The last type is a closed adoption where adoptive parents have no contact with birth parents. Explore the advantages and disadvantages of these adoption types and choose the one you feel is right for you.
Consider the Cost of Adoption
An adoption process is not necessarily as expensive as you may think. When you decide how you want to adopt you should explore the costs, as well as loans and grants to help with the costs.
Registration and Checks
When you have found an agency that suits you, it is time to formally register your interest in becoming an adoptive parent and do the first round of checks. This phase usually lasts no more than two months. Your application process will include references, a medical and criminal background check, as well as income statements.
Completing a Home Study
Home studies are important as the report that a social worker creates during a visit is going to be your resume during the adoption process. You have to do a home study, and the positive thing about it is that many agencies will have much information to share with you about the process to help you prepare.
Writing an Adoption Profile
When choosing the adoptive family for their baby, birthmothers read through adoptive family profiles. Make sure to write yours honestly and present what it would mean for you to have a child in your life.
