Step 2 - Examine your capabilities
Even if you already know you want to adopt a waiting child, you should consider what type of child you are willing to bring into your family. What disabilities and challenges can you comfortably handle? What age range, background, ethnicity? Are you open to helping your child maintain contact with his/her birth family members? Could you provide a home for two or more siblings? Your home, or access to services may not accommodate a child with certain challenges. There is nothing wrong with admitting that you cannot be all things to all people, and a realistic evaluation will result in greater success for your adoptive family.
In many states, post-adoption contact agreements are also being entered into in adoptions through public welfare agencies.
It's imperative to bring total honesty to the adoption process if children are to benefit. You may be hesitant to admit that certain medical, emotional, or behavioral problems seem to be too great a challenge, but it's important to face these doubts. Education opportunities are available to enable you to learn more about specific problems, and you should be given the opportunity to ask the hard questions. You may find that what you
thought would be difficult is well within your capabilities.
And, of course, when you meet that most wonderful child, be prepared for all your preconceived ideas and plans to dissolve.
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