Where and how to begin the adoption process

Taking the Right Path to Adoption

Choosing to adopt a child is just the beginning of a life changing but infinitely rewarding journey. The process of adoption may not take as much money and effort as you think, depending on the agency you’ve contacted and your preferences, but it’s definitely going to require you to wait for a good amount of time before the adoption process can be finalized.
Steps to Taking the Right Path to Adoption

If you and your partner have done enough soul searching and both of you are convinced that you are ready to adopt a child, here’s what you should do next.

Step 1 Choose Preferred Method of Adoption
There are basically three ways for adopting a child. One is to contact a public adoption agency. As this is funded by the government, you need not pay too much for the rights and means to adopt a child. Of course, this means a longer waiting period due to its affordability.

Another way for you to adopt a child is by transacting with a private adoption agency. Be prepared to pay at least $8,000 for their services and whether you’re adopting locally or from an agency based abroad. Of course, those expensive fees also guarantee a shorter waiting period.

The last way for you to adopt is by independent means. Contacts can help you find couples who are interested in surrendering their child for adoption, and if you reach an amicable agreement, you might only have to pay for legal expenses and nothing else for the chance to adopt a child.

Step 2 Creating a Profile of Your Future Adoptive Child
Whether you’re working with a public or private adoption agency, you will have to submit an application form that will help the agency determine not only your eligibility as an adoptive parent but determine which children matches your preferences as well.

Thus, now’s a good time as any to start thinking about the ideal child to adopt; you might think that you’re capable of loving just about any child as long as there’s a “connection” but you have to be practical as well.

Think of characteristics that will make a child easier for you to adopt and learn to love and care for. Age is an important factor. Adoption agencies are willing to expedite the process if you’re willing to adopt a child over seven years of age, but are you sure you have the financial, mental, emotional, and even physical capabilities of taking care of a fully grown child?

How about gender? Do you feel easier relating to a little boy or girl? What about race? Are you okay adopting a child of different race? And what about sibling groups? Are you willing to adopt siblings to preserve their bond?

Step 3 Taking Care of Requirements
Be prepared to submit documentary proof of your citizenship, occupation, income, and other qualifications, depending on the adoption procedures of your chosen agency.

In most cases, you will have to pass the pre-placement inquiry or home study. This is a test that will evaluate the atmosphere you and your family have at home. You and possibly other members of your family will participate in a succession of interviews, one of which is sure to be held at your very own home.

Be ready to submit at least three character references. These people should be willing to be interviewed regarding their relationship with you. Naturally, choose someone who knows you well, understands your motivations for adopting, and recognizes what makes you ideal as an adoptive parent.

Step 4 Practicing Patience
Depending on the standard operating procedures of your adoption agency and whatever unique conditions your situation contains, you might have to wait at least half a year before you can see the end of the rainbow and finally look forward to bringing your adopted child home. Once you’ve paid all the necessary expenses and completed the adoption requirements, you could have the chance to call him your son as well.

Step 5 What If Your Application is Turned Down?
There are certain instances when your application will be turned down. Your adoption agency will explain to you why. Afterwards, you have the choice of making the necessary changes to make yourself eligible or go back to Step One and find another alternative means to adoption.