If you’ve been trying to conceive for a long time you’ve probably already considered alternative options. Your physician may have suggested in vitro fertilization or other alternatives but you many prospective parents tend to view adoption as a last resort. The reason for this is that most parents want a child of their own.
Depending on their circumstances, couples may seek other options such as finding a surrogate mother. But in many cases, the obvious alternative is adoption. There are many children in need of a good home. Often childless couples are eager to adopt a newborn baby rather than an older child. Prospective parents are often deterred from adoption by the long waiting list sometimes involved in the adoption of a child.
There are many factors to consider when looking into the adoption process. You need to be sure that adoption is for you and that you are prepared to make the commitment. Keep in mind that information regarding a child’s birth parents is kept private and usually little or no information is provided unless prior arrangements have been made to the contrary. Information pertinent to the child’s health can be disclosed and should be made available. Couples seeking to adopt a child should do plenty of research to find an agency that is right for them. You should never become involved in an agreement that you are uncomfortable with. Be certain that you understand all aspects of the agreement before entering into or signing any type of contract. Ask questions where any uncertainty arises. Ask for clarification of any terms you may find unfamiliar.
The first step you will need to take once you have contacted an agency is to discuss the requirements of adoption in your state or area. Although laws continue to change, they still vary from state to state and may have different requirements regarding financial levels, single parent adoptions or adoption by those with alternative lifestyles. You also need to consider such factors as costs, legal fees and placement time, which may also vary from state to state.
Assuming that you have discussed all aspects of the adoption process with your partner or family, be certain to express your preferences, questions and concerns to the agency you are working with. You need to know whether you are willing to provide any needy child with a good, loving home or whether there are specifics you are looking for in the child you wish to adopt. Do you want an infant or are you willing to accept an older child? Are you willing to accept a special needs child? Does the sex of the child matter? Are you willing to adopt a child from a different ethnic background other than your own? These are questions to which you must give careful consideration. There are many children in the world that need loving parents. Do you have what it takes to fulfill that role?
To learn more schedule a consultation with Aida Rojas, here.
