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Originally Posted By anotherMarylandfamily

... but similarities can be the only words for this process since your last time.

There is no way to be placed in a pool for State Agencies but many of us wish that for the future. FACES and Waiting Families accessed from the home paid of Adopt.org may be able to get you started tho ... with an approved homestudy update from your worker stating you meet all current requirements.

In the interim you should glance through the internet postings ... not getting your heart set on any particular child or children ... and have your homestudy forwarded on any you would like to inquire on and, if not chosen for that child, then their worker may have other children to discuss with you. It's a long and quite frustrating process with so many families advocating for the same children, especially since you want one so young, so get ready for a roller-coaster ride and do keep visiting this board - it has a wealth of knowledge and advice to offer.

Major states, in my opinion, to avoid are those that aren't willing to pay placement and post placement supervision fees (i.e., California and Massachusetts). That block can be checked on the FACES write-up ... but do remember than even if it says no ... unless you ask - you never know if the placing state may be willing to negotiate a part of those costs. Oregon is known as a resource for younger children and are wonderful to work with (we had a placement which disrupted due to the child's needs being beyond our ability/capability and we still sing their praises for a state/agency to work with). Let us know which state you are in and as said ... then the advice will roll.

Good luck and welcome.