When you speak of ADOPTION REFORM what exactly are you referring to?
Q. There are often questions on here, like right now, that address "Adoption Reform". When that question is raised usually everyone is all in favor. I have found that it often means different things to different people, much like adoption itself is not one thing, but various processes, legal and otherwise, that all tend to get lumped together under the single heading of ADOPTION. While there are things about adoption I am in complete agreement need reform, I would be interested in knowing what adoption reform means to different people.
Asked by SLY - Wed Jan 21 13:46:16 2009 - - 14 Answers - 0 Comments

A. I find the entire concept of North American adoption /childwelfare industry to be fundamentally flawed. It was based in the utopian society movements of the 19th century, and the Progressive era, when 'forward thinkers' were trying to find ways to improve society. The family is the basic unit for replenishing society. Shape the family, and shape society. Adoption has re-defined how many people think of families, with government "help." Adoption of children was based on the idea that environment shaped and molded the child, who was a blank slate at birth. The falsified birth certificate and the laws reflected the "as if born to" concept of this flawed concept. Subsequent 'reform" attempts have done little to improve this situation.… [cont.]
Answered by kitta - Wed Jan 21 16:33:12 2009

What qualifications are needed to conduct adoption home studies?
Q. I have always been attracted to a career in adoptions. Currently, I am a teacher. What type of certification/degree to people who do adoption home studies have?
Asked by OceanGirl99 - Fri Jan 2 19:56:18 2009 - - 2 Answers - 0 Comments

A. It depends on where you are at. In my state, a degree in almost any area of study...usually a human type field, such a counseling, teaching, criminal justice...Social work (BSW), will get you a job as a case manager in the state social service system and yes many of them refer to themselves as 'social workers' even though they do not hold a degree in social work. Now, to do home studies...you usually have to hold a Master's Level...MSW, for instance, to do them on your own. You could possibly do home studies under a contractor (you would be a sub contractor) if you only hold a Bachelor's level degree. We have teachers who write insightful studies which are often better than those done by BSW or MSW level social workers. Adoption… [cont.]
Answered by Rita - Fri Jan 2 20:50:40 2009

How to find good adoption attorney in Peru?
Q. I am looking for a good international adoption attorney in Peru to help me work with MIMDES (I don't want to go through any of the agencies currently working in Peru). Where can I find any recommendation or feedback boards other than embassy list of attorneys?
Asked by adoptori - Fri Aug 17 20:35:28 2007 - - 1 Answers - 0 Comments

A. Try contacting this agency . They specialize in adoption in Peru and will surely have an attorney.
Answered by Still Me - Sun Aug 19 01:16:53 2007

How soon after an adoption is final is it considered appropriate to see someone?
Q. I gave a child up for adoption recently, and have been receiving date invitations, and have turned them down. However, I do wish to date. How soon is it "alright" to do so?
Asked by Kati S. - Tue Dec 25 16:18:11 2007 - - 11 Answers - 1 Comments

A. I think you should get on with your life as soon as you are ready. Just make sure you don't repeat past mistakes. I'm proud of you for making a loving choice for your child. It was the hardest choice and I'm sure even harder after you gave birth. I am the mother of a 28 year old adopted daughter. I prayed frequently for my daughters biological mother and I suspect there's someone out there praying for you too.
Answered by School Nurse - Tue Dec 25 18:58:36 2007

How can I reccommend adoption to my friend without her being offended?
Q. My friend is having a baby, the father isnt in the picture, and her family is going through rough times. She decided to keep it, but now that I think about it adoption would be the best option for the baby. How can I tell her that? Its very hard because shes my best friend and I do want her to keep it but I know that would be selfish. She chose to bring a child into this world and I do not want to see him or her suffer. What do I do? I need to add this for clarification. She has no money for this baby. Her mom is sick and cant work. Her family of 6 live in a 2 bedroom apartment. She is going to school and working part time, having to give all her money to help support her family (little brothers). Her family on one side is not supportive,… [cont.]
Asked by Lynn - Fri Jan 30 11:34:23 2009 - - 29 Answers - 1 Comments

A. "She decided to keep it, but now that I think about it adoption would be the best option for the baby."--- really? and why do you believe that you are better qualified to decide what a person should do with their child? and how would it be selfish for a mother to keep her child? do you have a magic 8 ball that can predict whether this child will suffer with her; or never suffer with an adoptive family? my recommendation: be a FRIEND and support her decision. ETA: umm.. read your edits, and... i still say you have no case. butt out of her uterus! and offer to babysit. "I helped her decide against abortion, but so many people want kids that cant have them. People with money to support themselves." a few things: 1) it is not your… [cont.]
Answered by tish_part deux - Fri Jan 30 12:16:11 2009

What to do before home study for adoption?
Q. I'm just starting the adoption process. I have found two special needs children that are currently in foster care. To be able to adopt either of them I need to complete a home study. Both boys are toddlers. What types of things can I prepare in my house before the social worker comes to increase the ease of the home study? Will I need to have a room already completed for a child? Will I need to have the home "child-proofed"? Any tips on the home study process, or on adoption from foster care are much appreciated.
Asked by sweet_ottalie - Thu May 3 05:13:19 2007 - - 7 Answers - 0 Comments

A. the inspection of the house will be the same as for foster care. You can usually ge the book from your foster care co-ordinator. Basically safety covers on light sockets, no chemicals under sink or locked. Locked medicine box, power tools and paint and things out of reach in garage. In our case the inspection was the last meeting to be had,. The homestudy also involves interviews and paperwork. Make copies of all birth certificates, marriage lisence, divorce papers, tax records, pay check stubs, home, life and care insurance papers. Make doctors appointments for physicals of adult members. You do not need a room ready yet, just to show that you have room to put them. there is a site called adoption.com that has all kinds of info and… [cont.]
Answered by mom of many - Thu May 3 08:42:57 2007

How can I obtain a job working with pregnancy and adoption services?
Q. Hi, I'm a 17 old senior high school student in Canada, and I was wondering what job positions there are in pregnancy and adoption services? What education and experience do I need to obtain one of these positions in the future? I have assisted in the adoption of my brother, and well as assisted friends through their adoption. I would love to continue being able to help people through things like this, but on a more professional level. Thanks
Asked by xboxgirl - Tue Oct 10 15:46:34 2006 - - 1 Answers - 0 Comments

A. Maybe you should look into becoming a social worker. Potential college majors include social work, elementary education and child development. Not sure about Canada, in the US a social worker almost certainly needs a Master's Degree.
Answered by Adoptive Father - Tue Oct 10 17:32:38 2006

What are adoption practices in other countries?
Q. Not in how the west exploits adoption, but in other countries how are adoptions, if at all, practiced?
Asked by Opedial - Sun Jan 25 19:52:03 2009 - - 2 Answers - 0 Comments

A. Let me answer for India. You go to an orphanage and choose from the ones that are ready to be placed. You must be meeting all guidelines that are put down by the goverment under CARA. Documentation is done and then you take the child home for fostering.After several month to a year the court grants you full custody. Private adoption practises are highly unethical and more popular but not too common. Don't have stats though to offer. You know a doctor, and then she/he knows some expectant mother(poor or unwed) or a mother post birth (mostly after realising its a girl child after birth since sex determination during pregnancy is not allowed) and she knows of some one who is looking to adopt privately. The doctor or hospital authority calls… [cont.]
Answered by Indian-vision - Mon Jan 26 00:32:51 2009

What is wrong with adoption because you want a family?
Q. Ok I get the hole not telling the adopted child they are adopted, I am in favor of not amending OBC (Original birth certificate0, and just getting an adoption certificate, I am have even changed my opinion on closed adoptions, in fav of enforcing open adoption. However i don't get why so many of you say it is selfish to adopt. People don't give birth thinking about the kids needs. They have kids because they want kids. Some people can't so they adopt. .
Asked by Good Job - Mon Jan 12 21:57:28 2009 - - 23 Answers - 0 Comments

A. Speaking as an adoptive mom, adopting a child is no more and no less selfish than giving birth to one. Wanting a family is selfish. We do it for ourselves. It's human. It's primal. So no, there is nothing wrong with wanting to have a family. But IMO there is good selfish and bad selfish. Good is wanting to adopt because you want to be parents to a child that does not have any. Bad is wanting to adopt because you wish to be a hero, or save your marriage or feel fulfilled, or have someone take care of you. Many of these bad reasons also apply to people who raise biological children. So in essence: the desire to have a family is selfish, yet normal, but what ultimately matters is what you do once you become a parent. It should be about… [cont.]
Answered by Kazi - Mon Jan 12 22:10:39 2009

Why do the adoption haters degrade natural mothers who want their child to grow up with a father?
Q. My son's natural mother sought out my adoption agency. They did not seek her out. She's a very strong woman, and not a mindless idiot like some adoption haters make her out to be. Her main reason for putting my son up for adoption was so he would have a father. I completely understand that a single mom can do a great job as a parent on her own, but based on years and years of research, it has been proven children as a whole are more successful in a two parent home. I'm not saying this is always the case, but as a whole. My point is, if my son's natural mother made this choice on her own, without any coersion, why do adoption haters degrade her for it? She does struggle with some depression but she has told us it is because certain people… [cont.]
Asked by cowboy_fan - Sat Oct 6 19:38:00 2007 - - 15 Answers - 1 Comments

A. I am a birthmom and there is someone in my church who is totally against adoption. Her son-in-law was adopted and she states that his birthmom abandoned him. It's hard to hear that because I really love my baby and wanted what was best. I still have another year of high school to go. Adoption is a lot different now and people don't seem to realize it. I live in a single parent home and it's been really tough. I wanted what was best for my child. I am very blessed to have found a great family. The birthfather and I have an open adoption with the family. Glad to hear your situation is working. Gives me a better hope for mine :)
Answered by yeehaneeha - Sun Oct 7 01:16:16 2007

What kind of dogs do they have for adoption at animal shelters?
Q. I want to adopt a puppy for my 4 year old son. But with all the animals that end up in animal shelters, I would like to adopt one there as opposed to buying one from a pet shop. I worry that at an animal shelter, there will be no puppies for adoption. And I want a puppy so my son and the puppy have a better chance of bonding. Here are my questions: 1) Do animal shelters have puppies for adoption or just older dogs? 2) Does the age of the dog even make a difference in whether or not the dog and my son will bond? Thanks!
Asked by Keep on Truckin' - Sun Jul 1 00:15:27 2007 - - 18 Answers - 0 Comments

A. Bless your heart for considering adoption! Animal Shelters have ALL types of dogs and ages. 25% are purebreds. I would not go with a puppy for your 4 year old. Puppies bite, chew and need to be housebroken. Your first concern is your son's safety. I would go with a more mature dog that has been raised around kids and likes them. Older dogs bond well, if not better with children. The added benefit is; they're already housebroken, usually know commands, won't destroy your home and can be trusted around your child. Tell the shelter exactly what you're looking for. Many times these dogs end up in the shelter because their owners can't afford to take care of them anymore because of the lousy economy (here in Michigan anyway). A rescue or… [cont.]
Answered by sniffydogs - Sun Jul 1 08:57:21 2007

What is the average cost of a newborn adoption through an adoption agency?
Q. My husband and I are wanting a baby and have been unsuccessful for three years now. What should we expect financially for a domestic adoption? $5,000, $10,000, $20,000??? We have no clue.
Asked by Babycakes - Tue Aug 25 00:35:16 2009 - - 11 Answers - 0 Comments

A. Actually agencies are not the only place to adopt a child. There are children services who can help and also groups such as this one: where you can ask questions and try to help each other.
Answered by Marla - Wed Aug 26 19:27:08 2009

Do you think it is possible for adoption workers to give unbiased advice about adoption?
Q. Adoption workers are paid by hopeful adoptive parents to find them a child (under 2 years of age, preferably an infant). With such a big stake in the adoption being finalized, do you think it is possible for adoption workers to give unbiased advice to either the adoptive parents or the pregnant mother (and the baby s father)? How much should they be trusted by adoptive parents? How much should they be trusted by parents coping with an unexpected pregnancy?
Asked by grapesgum - Sat Mar 8 18:13:34 2008 - - 15 Answers - 0 Comments

A. Nope. Most adoption workers are not even degreed in social work or any related field. I would be very careful in trusting someone who claims to work in the adoption industry in real life or on the internet unless they have an actual degree in social work or a comparable field. People here have even talked about the role of adoption caseworkers. Some of them are specifically trained to befriend potential "birth mothers" so that if they do have a change of heart and decide to parent, the caseworker can try to persuade them to relinquish. Of course the fact that the person who mentioned this said it like it was a good thing is truly gut-wrenching in and of itself. But that is another story. The truth is, most adoption agencies are in it… [cont.]
Answered by Isabel A - Sat Mar 8 20:35:16 2008

What are good ir not liscened adoption agencies or orphanages in the Philippines?
Q. I am thinking of adopting sometime in the future. But I am out of the country, nor am I familiar wih Manila adoption agencies. What are the well known or recommended orphanages in the Luzon or Manila area?
Asked by Galileah_B - Sun Nov 16 01:41:51 2008 - - 2 Answers - 0 Comments

A. This may or may not answer question about particular agencies, but it's good info about the adoption process in the Philippines. This site has links to adoption agencies. Good luck!
Answered by John A - Tue Nov 18 12:58:19 2008

Is a grandparent eligible for the adoption tax credit if he claims the parent as a dependent?
Q. This past year I adopted a foster child. I have been going to school and living with my parents. My dad is claiming me as a dependent. Can he also qualify for the adoption tax credit because of our new son?
Asked by Benjamin T - Thu Mar 13 18:09:07 2008 - - 1 Answers - 0 Comments

A. idon't think so because he didn't adopt the child. you did. Did he pay for the adoption fees? however your dad can claim your child as a qualifying child. That way he gets the child tax credit and another 3400 exemption.
Answered by Codys mom - Thu Mar 13 18:20:15 2008

How could I start an orphanage/adoption agency in a foreign country?
Q. I have been thinking that it would be great to start an orphanage/adoption agency in a foreign country that has a lot of orphans and kids living on the streets. I was thinking about China. I know that a lot of people adopt children from there. I was just curious about what financial and political steps that I would have to go through to do something like this.
Asked by WolfmanX - Sun Jul 19 23:37:58 2009 - - 3 Answers - 0 Comments

A. Kazi made great points. bottom line is that you have LOTS of homework to do. first step will be to select a country...and then start reading. rules will be different in each country (obviously you'll have to know the law from both U.S. and that country for a start). I would suggest interviewing directors of agencies already working in that country. they can quickly coach you on the cities to stay away from or to focus on areas that still need help. good luck and be patient. there is much to learn and some countries (i.e. Russia) change their adoption policies and rules very often.
Answered by jimmy folate - Mon Jul 20 08:18:41 2009

What exactly is the difference between foster care and adoption?
Q. Ok so i know what adoption is, but what exactly is foster care, like how is it different from adoption? and What is your opinion on which is better? I was talking to my husband about us one day adopting and he mentioned being foster parents so I was curious as to which is better, and how exactly foster care works so I can make a better decision when the time comes.
Asked by Proud New Mommy :) - Sat Apr 5 17:17:10 2008 - - 10 Answers - 1 Comments

A. Foster care is where a family is qualified by the state to accept children in their home either on short-term or long-term basis. The goal of foster care is to provide a "safe haven" for the child while the birth parents work on their lives (if possible) to reunite the original family. In some cases this is not possible (as with mine) due to crimes or b-parents choosing or failing not to meet the recommendations of the state. In those cases, the children are made for adoption through foster care. Often called foster adopt. Adoption is different in that the children are not "removed" from the home by the state. Typically in regular adoption cases, it is the b-family who has sought out to make an adoption plan for their child and… [cont.]
Answered by Proud Adoptee - Sat Apr 5 18:33:36 2008

How exactly does the adoption tax credit work?
Q. My husband and I are considering an international adoption. We normally overpay on our taxes and as a result get money back every year when we do our taxes. I am not sure how this works with the adoption tax credit. Will we get that much more money back? Just trying to figure out if we can financially afford it and this information would really help.
Asked by Jamie H - Thu Feb 19 17:06:19 2009 - - 6 Answers - 0 Comments

A. I have not verified this but, from what I understand the Adoption Tax Credit will be changing if it has not yet. The Current Rules will Expire in 2010 Families who adopted Domestically or Internationally could claim the tax credit and were required to Document their expenses in order to do so. Any Employer Adoption Credit had to be deducted from the Tax Credit. Families who adopted children from foster care can take it without proving the expenses to adopt (since there really arn't any) The Tax credit was originally designed to make it a little more possible for families to Adopt Children our Taxes are already supporting. The sad thing has turned out that many families who do adopt children from Foster Care didn't think they could… [cont.]
Answered by HappyMomAnna - Thu Feb 19 17:35:04 2009

How long have you been in the adoption section and what is the most important thing you learned?
Q. I have been here since June when I came to ask a question about searching for my bio-mother. The most important thing I learned: Adoption is not as easy as getting "the baby," and alot of people do not think enough about its impact.
Asked by Looney Tunes - Sat Dec 6 20:21:44 2008 - - 23 Answers - 0 Comments

A. Been here on and off about 6 months. I've learned alot of adoptees are unhappy about their adoption and that sometimes adoption is corrupt. I haven't learned many positives about adoption at all in this section. Generally I feel this is a site that is mostly anti adoption.
Answered by Penny P - Thu Dec 11 07:32:39 2008

How much do you pay for an adoption fee where you live?
Q. We got a mutt from the dog shelter and we had to pay a AU$350 adoption fee. At that particular shelter their dogs range from AU$200 to $450 depending on age and type. I think it's much the same at the other shelters around my area.
Asked by BethanyAS - Thu Apr 3 23:49:46 2008 - - 15 Answers - 0 Comments

A. Like yours, the price depends on the age and type, as well as if the animal is fixed. It can vary from $40 (kittens) to $250. $250 is the highest I've seen, and that was for a purebred Lab with gundog training who'd already been neutered.
Answered by hockey_gal9 *Biggest Stars fan!* - Thu Apr 3 23:55:20 2008