Single Parent Adoption
Over the last 20 years, Adoptions Together has seen a steady increase in the number of single women and men who are joining the adoption community. We welcome the opportunity to assist single parents interested in adopting a child. In fact, some single parents have returned for a second or third adoption in order to grow their family further.
In the United States and many other countries, marital status or the existence of a spouse does not affect your eligibility to adopt a child. Certain agencies and countries involved in international adoption will have policies prohibiting single parent adoptions.
At Adoptions Together, our focus is on ensuring a child will find a permanent loving and nurturing home and we believe that can occur within all family types.
Read a Single Dad’s Adoption Story
Points of Consideration for Single Parents interested in adoption
As you have likely considered, parenting a child or children as a single parent will be different than parenting in a partnered relationship. Advice from single adoptive parents have included:
- It is important to create a close network of friends, family, or other parents who can offer you support. There is often little to no relief when you need a break. Time away from parenting in single adoption families can require a sitter or respite care of some kind.
- As a single adoptive parent, you typically will only have one source of income. It is important to have a financial “plan B” in the event that challenges arise financially. It is also important to inform your employer of your adoption plan and to prepare financially for how you will support yourself during the time you choose to spend at home with your child after placement.
- Travel in general can be more complex. Make sure to include extra time in your plans or consider bringing a friend or family member with you.
- It can be difficult to deal with the public perception that it takes two parents to produce a well-adjusted, responsible child. Find ways to connect with other single parents, both with biological and adopted children, in order to have a social network that fosters understanding and support.
Adoptions Together offers an on-demand webinar, Flying Solo: Adopting as a Single Parent
Adopting and raising a child as a single parent has become more common and widely accepted over the last decade. Yet, it can be a complex and challenging endeavor that requires careful thought and preparation. Singles who are contemplating adoption often have many questions, and possibly even concerns about the process. They may be filled with anticipation and excitement, or they may be unsure if parenting on their own is the right choice. This seminar will cover BOTH the process of single parent adoption as well as the joys and challenges after a child is home. Some of the issues addressed include going it alone, answering questions from nosy outsiders, helping the child make sense of his/her family, dating as a single adoptive parent, and the heightened sensitivity your adopted child has regarding loss and change. Fee: $ 20.00
(1 Hour)
Adoptions Together supports single parents by providing you the resources you need to succeed as a single parent. We understand that adoption is not a journey that concludes the day your child joins your family, and we have many programs designed to support you and your child every step of the way.
Please contact Adoptions Together today at 301-439-2900 for more information on single parent adoption