Choosing an adoptive family means you probably already have a mental picture of an ideal home and family for your child. The adoption process creates an opportunity to make that picture a reality by providing you with the opportunity to select the family you want. By answering the following questions you will gain a better understanding of what kind of home and family might be best for your child.
You might be looking for a family that already has brothers or sisters or you may be looking for first-time parents. Who you want to choose as the family you give to your baby can be up to you.
Below are some questions to help you envision the family you want to choose for your baby:
Questions to Ask
- How long have you been married?
- What makes your marriage work?
- How many other children do you have, or plan to have?
- What is the source of your motivation for adopting?
- Do you have any pets, and if so, how many and what kind?
- Where do you live and what are the living conditions and the general environment (standard of living, urban, country, weather, crime, etc.)? What is your community like?
- Do you have plans to move?
- What is your denomination and current views and practices of religion?
- How much contact do you expect to have with me?
- What is your educational background?
- What is your current occupation–the way you earn a living?
- Will both of you work after you adopt?
- What will make you good parents?
- What about your extended family? How much contact do you expect to have with them?
- With whom will your child be spending the most time?
- What connections through family and friends do you have with adoption?
- What are your hobbies, interests, and goals for the future?
- What type of education would you make available for your child?
- Do you have a college savings plan for your children?
- How do you handle and resolve conflict?
- What is your personal philosophy toward discipline?
- What kind of future do you envision for your adopted child?
You may find it helpful to discuss your questions with an Adoption Specialist. Remember, asking questions does not create a commitment to place for adoption. It is usually helpful to get expert insights.
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