If you are looking to adopt a child, there are several routes you can take. You can adopt out of the foster care system, with an adoption lawyer to help broker a private adoption, or within your own family. According to adoption.com, “traditional orphanages as portrayed in novels and movies no longer exist in America,” having been replaced by the foster system and residential treatment facilities.

Many families want to adopt an infant to raise them from as young an age as possible. As a result, it can be more challenging to adopt a baby than an older child or a teen. Waiting times can be long, and processes can feel competitive.

The more flexible you are regarding what kind of child you are willing to adopt, the more likely you may find someone to bring home. If you are open to considering any child without preference for age, gender or race, you may find your search comes to a happy conclusion faster.

According to the “Creating a Family” website, there are five questions to ask yourself before you adopt:

1. What adoption options should I consider?
2. What agency is right for me?
3. Are my finances ready for the expenses of adoption?
4. Do I have a support network?
5. What do I need to learn?

As you consider each of these questions, you’ll be able to focus on the type of organization that will be best for you.

Look carefully at the list of adoption agencies near you, above. Check out the reviews and see if complaints are resolved quickly. Always look for businesses that adhere to BBB's Standards for Trust. 

 

For more information

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See BBB's back-to-school HQ for more tips and resources for children.