Question 1

My daughter is 15 and wants to find her birth mother. Should I worry?

Accepted Answer

Questions about identity and origins are a normal part of growing up adopted. Adoption support services can help with a teen's search for identity; ask your state agency how access to adoption records works where you live.

Question 2

My 8-year-old son keeps asking why his birth mom gave him up. What do I say?

Accepted Answer

Answer honestly in words he can follow, and make clear it was not his fault. Most adopted children aged 6 to 12 think often about their birth parents, so it helps to bring the subject up yourself rather than wait.

Question 3

Can a foster child go back to their birth family?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Foster care is a temporary service that lasts until the child is reunified with their family or, if that is not possible, until a permanent family is found. Go into fostering knowing that supporting a child's return home is often part of the role.

Question 4

How do I tell a child they are adopted?

Accepted Answer

Start early and don't wait for your child to raise it. Use words like “birth mother” and “they made a plan for you to be adopted,” and talk openly: parents who tense up or keep it a secret may send the message that something is wrong with being adopted.

Question 5

Is there an age limit to adopt a child?

Accepted Answer

There is no single national rule; requirements for approving adoptive homes vary considerably from state to state. In general, any adult, whether single or married, may apply, and a home study looks at health, income and your ability to meet the child's needs. Ask your state child welfare agency for its exact rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions(5 questions)