There are many reasons why families turn to adoption. Whether based on complex medical histories, a calling of faith, or the desire to share your home, every adoption journey is unique. It’s a life-changing decision that creates a loving impact on you, your child, the child’s birth mother, and other members of your family. Whether you’re adopting domestically, internationally, or through foster care, understanding the process will help you start your adoption journey with confidence. Here are five key steps to guide you as you begin your adoption journey.
Step 1. Research Adoption Types and Agencies
Before you begin filling out the necessary paperwork, it’s important to explore the different types of adoption to determine which one best fits your family. The three main types of adoption include domestic adoption, international adoption, and foster care adoption. Once you have an idea of the type of adoption you’re interested in, start researching agencies. Look for accredited agencies with positive reviews, strong support systems, and experience in the specific type of adoption you’re pursuing. The right agency will guide you every step of the way, from the first phone call to the day you bring your child home.
Step 2. Understand the Costs and Funding Options
Adoption can come with significant financial costs, especially in the case of international or private domestic adoptions. It’s important to have a clear understanding of these costs upfront so you can plan and budget accordingly. These expenses can include agency fees, legal fees, travel expenses, medical care for the child, and more. However, these expenses shouldn’t keep you from adopting. There are many funding options available for adoptive families. You can explore grants, fundraising, employer adoption benefits, and federal or state tax credits to ease the financial burden. Planning ahead and seeking guidance from your agency will help you navigate the financial aspects of adoption with confidence.
Step 3. Complete Your Home Study
The home study is an essential and often detailed step in the adoption process. It assesses your family’s readiness for adoption, including your living environment, lifestyle, and emotional preparedness. During the study, a licensed social worker will conduct home visits and interview family members to ensure you’re ready to adopt. Preparing for your home study can feel overwhelming, but remember that it’s designed to help ensure the best possible environment for your future child. Open communication with your social worker and agency can help make the process smoother.
4. Prepare Yourself Emotionally
While a wonderful process, adoption can also be emotionally demanding. As you go through the process, you may experience feelings of anticipation, uncertainty, and sometimes even frustration due to waiting periods while also experiencing great excitement and joy. It’s important to prepare yourself emotionally for the highs and lows that may come with the journey. This is why it’s so important to have a support network. This could be family and friends, adoptive parent groups, or even a counselor who specializes in adoption. Connecting with others who have gone through the process can provide encouragement and insight as you work toward bringing your child home.
5. Be Patient and Trust the Process
Adoption is a journey that can take time. Each type of adoption has its own timeline, and sometimes things don’t move as quickly as you might hope. There may be delays in paperwork, waiting periods to match with a child, or complications that arise along the way. In these moments, it’s essential to trust the process and stay committed to your goal. Have faith that adoption is not just about completing paperwork—it’s about finding the right child for your family.
At New Beginnings, we’re here to support you as you start your adoption journey. From your first considerations, through your home study, and until your child is home, we carefully walk you through each step with care, faith, and confidence. Reach out today to see what resources are available to you.