Steps to a Successful Adoption

Although legislation and guidelines are different for each area of the world, there are a few steps common to most types of adoption. See the following twelve steps to help educate, investigate, prepare and finalize your path toward adoption.

1. Educate yourself and your family members.
2. Decide what type of adoption you want pursue.
3. Investigate ways to handle adoption expenses.
4. Select an adoption agency/facilitator and/or attorney.
5. Complete an agency application form.
6. Begin the homestudy process.
7. Attend pre-adoption and parenting classes.
8. Be matched with or locate a child.
9. Prepare for your child’s arrival.
10. File a petition to adopt.
11. Finalize the adoption.
12. Learn about post-adoption services and education.