Adopting a child can be both rewarding and challenging.
In 2009, there were 12,753 adoptions in the United States, reports the U.S. Department of State. Many families choose to adopt for a variety of reasons. Ethical, medical and religious beliefs can all play a role in adopting a child. Children of all ages, races and needs are available for adoption. Adopting a child requires commitment and knowledge of the process.
Costs
The cost of adopting a child varies greatly. International adoption is one of the most expensive options and, as of 2010, costs up to $40,000. The expense comes from filing fees, accommodations and the wages of all the workers involved in adopting a child from another country. The least expensive option is adopting a child from foster care. When a person or a couple fosters a child, the federal government will provide a certain amount of money each month to help with the costs. If the foster parents decide to adopt the child, they may pay a small fee or even receive a stipend each month to help pay for expenses.
Background Check
All adoptive parents must complete a background check. The main purpose of the check is to make sure that the child will be placed in a safe and healthy environment. Of the utmost concern is whether or not the parent has ever been convicted of any crime involving a child. This includes sexual, physical and emotional abuse. The parents will also be checked for a hisotry of any other crimes that could put the child in danger. A credit check is usually not performed unless required by a private agency for an international adoption.
Time Frame
Depending on the type of adoption, the entire process could take between a few months to more than a year. The time constraints are related to the court dates, paper work, training and background checks that the agency will complete. Often, the child will stay in the home of the prospective parent until he is legally adopted.
Considerations
Adoption agencies do not always tell prospective parents all the important details about a child. This is especially true for parents who adopt internationally in a country where disclosure laws are different from laws in the United States. Some agencies may keep discouraging details to themselves such as possible mental health issues or the child's age. Most agencies are forthright and will disclose all the information they have available. It is important to consider how a child's needs will impact a family.
Benefits
The benefits of adopting a child are closely tied to personal beliefs for many people. Some say that it is better to offer a home to a child than to procreate. For some, the benefit simply comes in being able to create their picture of an ideal family. Adopting a child also allows a family to experience the challenges and rewards of bringing an adopted child into the home.
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