3 Signs Your Family Is Ready for Adoption

Every family is unique, and not every family has to be formed in the traditional way. There are many reasons why adoption could be the right choice for your family, but such a big decision requiring so much commitment can feel overwhelming. It's not a decision that should be taken lightly, especially given the amount of time and resources adoption usually takes. If you think you're ready to add a child to your family, here are some signs your family may be ready to adopt.

You Have Done Your Research

The adoption process is often long and time consuming, so if you've completed all your research and understand all your options, you may be prepared to choose the option that works best for you. You may decide to help children in foster care and later choose to adopt a child. You may decide on an international adoption, or you may choose domestic adoption. You should keep your financial situation in mind, as fees will vary from agency to agency. There are many agencies that help women carefully consider their adoption options should they experience an unplanned pregnancy, and these programs can help pair these women with prospective adoptive parents.

You Have the Necessary Resources

Raising a child requires more than money for food, clothing and shelter. You need to have the time, the space and a support system. Chances are you're going to run into different problems or unexpected situations other parents don't have to deal with, so a network of families in the same situation can be a huge help on difficult days. When you're adopting, you may find that you need even more than the typical resources at hand. For example, children who have spent time in foster care can often benefit from therapy. You may need the mental and emotional capacity to form a working relationship with your child's birth family if you didn't choose a closed adoption. There may be medical costs or fees from the adoption agency as well. Even if you adopt from foster care and don't pay an agency, you'll want to have a lawyer help with the paperwork.

You Are Ready To Love a New Child

In many cases, couples choose to adopt because they could not have children of their own. It is normal and healthy for couples to grieve the loss of a future they expected, but it is also important to accept the situation before bringing a new child into the home. Adopting a child is not a replacement for pregnancy, and you may not be ready for adoption if you're still focusing on raising a child that is biologically yours. Dealing with infertility, especially if you spend money and time on treatments, can cause huge amounts of stress, so you may want to seek therapy before you start the adoption process. You may even want to try marriage counseling to help you work through any lingering issues. It's not uncommon for couples to have different adoption plans before they actually sit down to begin the process. If you want to adopt an infant while your spouse prefers an older child, someone is going to be disappointed. Your spouse may prefer to meet with the birth mother, while you would prefer not to. Speaking to an expert can help you both work out your boundaries and come to a conclusion that suits your family best. This way, you'll be better prepared to commit and welcome a new child to a healthy home environment.

Adoption is a huge decision, one requiring significant resources and endless amounts of patience. This is a choice that will not just impact you, but your future child and potentially your child's birth family. In the end, it can be one of the most beautiful, rewarding life achievements you can ever experience. By taking the time to conduct your research carefully, strengthening your familial bonds and gathering your resources, you'll be better prepared for welcoming another member to your family.