Description

Congratulations on considering adoption asaway to start or grow your family. Both domesticallyandinternationally, there are millions of children who are lookingfora home with their ‘forever family.’ Whether you are turningtoadoption because of infertility issues, or simply because ofadesire to provide for children who are parentless ratherthancreating your own, deciding to adopt is a lifelong, fulfilling,andchallenging commitment - just as having a biological childwouldbe.

It’s natural to feel excitement and joy when you imaginethechild that you will bring into your family through adoption.Justas parents who are waiting nine months for a pregnancy to cometofruition, prospective adoptive parents will have many monthsofcontemplating, worrying, and dreaming about their preciousfuturechild. But because adopting a child can often beunpredictable inthe exact time that it takes, it’s important thatyou acquaintyourself with the adoption process, the possiblepitfalls, andother challenges that you might face along theway.

For many adoptive couples or singles, the dream of the endresultis what will keep them motivated through the process – whichis howit should be. But if they are not prepared for the ways inwhichadoption works, those dreams could become tainted withfrustrationand disappointment. None of the information here shoulddissuade youfrom pursuing your goal of adoption. But it shouldhelp to informyou so that you can maintain the positive attitudeand forwardmotion that will eventually bring you the child orchildren that areright for you and your family.

Table Of Contents:

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU START
ADOPTION OPTIONS
DOMESTIC INFANT ADOPTIONS
YOUR PROFILE
INTERNATIONAL ADOPTION
AFFORDING ADOPTION
AVOIDING COMMON PITFALLS
CONCLUSION