So many options makes me feel overwhelmed! This could be the most important decision that I will make in my lifetime. Where do I start?
Children are so very important the world and our future. There are so many options available for families to care for and raise children. One of these options is called adoption. According to Merriam-Webster, the word adoption means to take by choice into a relationship; (a child of other parents) as one’s own child.
It sounds simple, adoption, but it can be a stressful and lengthily legal process. So by gaining more information and knowledge about the matter, you are able make less overwhelming plan.
After having my first child, I always knew the adoption could be an option to extend our family. Since I didn’t have a such a wonderful time while being pregnant, I’ve decided to explore alternative methods.
DOMESTIC ADOPTION
When I think of the idea of local adoption, I picture a pregnant woman, who has made the choice to provide their unborn child with a different life with another family.
While this might not always be the case, it is pretty much the basic idea. According to American Adoptions website, a domestic adoption is where a woman experiencing an unplanned pregnancy chooses adoption for her child. The potential parents will work with an agency to create a profile. The birth mothers then receive the different profiles and make the decision as to which family that best fits.
Kind of sounds like a popularity contest, which to me, seems a bit terrifying. But if you know what you want, then it will be worth the luck of the draw.
FOSTER CARE ADOPTION
In our society, the term foster care can be a negative statement, which can bring negative emotions. Thoughts of sadness can occur when we have assumptions of a horrible childhood for these individuals. Unfortunately, people who are brought up in the foster care system are viewed as dangerous or the ‘problem child’. These stereo-types are awful because we shouldn’t judge people due to their past childhood experiences. In most cases, they are just children in need of a home and loving family with stability.
Domestic Child Adoption or foster care adoption is when older children, who’s primary goal is to reunite with the biological parents, also have the option to be adopted just like an unborn baby.
American Adoptions also states, more than 400,000 child are in foster care and more than 100,000 of these children don’t reunite with their parents. That means there are a ton of children in need of love and home to call their own. So if you think this would be a great fit for you, reach out to your local Department of Child Services. This way, you are able to grow your family and also help your community.
INDEPENDENT ADOPTION
This third type of adoption is not hugely recognized but is just as important as the previous two. Independent, relative and stepparent adoptions are when potential parents already know the child or birth mother. So for the most part, we rarely think about the kids who already have a connection with possible parents and all the emotions that come along with that. Everyone needs love and support, especially the children who feel abandoned and unwanted. According to American Adoptions, you still might need the help of an agency for certain processes. Also an adoption attorney is going to be needed for the legal steps.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Adoption can be a scary thing both for the child and potential parents. But don’t let the fear of it, prevent you from missing out on an amazing opportunity. Information overload can become over whelming, I totally get it. By breaking down everything into smaller parts, you are able to take everything in. Then you’re able to think about what you want and make a decision that works best for you and your family. If you want more help reached out to different agencies or you can call 1-800-Adoption. The American Adoptions website, I have referenced is an actual agency itself, so please feel free to use the website to request additional information.
