[adoptionhelp]

Hi Everyone,
My husband and I are starting the process of adopting (MAPP training etc) from the state. We're writing on our app. that we'd prefer a child under four; we're open to all races. Are we likely to be able to adopt a child this young?

I've heard mixed thoughts on this with some saying there are many younger AA children available and others saying there are not. If you adopted from the state, how long was your wait? Any input is welcomed. Thanks

[Sleeplvr]

It depends on where you live... it's a numbers game and whatever the state decides to put emphasis on... adoption or reunification. In the past the state focused on reunification and then adoption was the second option. Now there has been a shift to reunification then kinship placement and adoption as a last resort.

I adopted from the state. We did the foster to adopt program which was the only way to get a baby in a reasonable amount of time where I lived. My baby boy was 3 hours old when we got to the hospital. We didn't finalize his adoption until he was almost 18 months old. It took us about a year and a half to get an adoptable baby. The caseworker told us it would take a year and a half and she was right.
If you want a baby from the state you will pretty much have to foster to get one. Straight adoptions of infants are rare and they typically go to people who have been helping out by fostering.

[Prettyboicris]

It depends on your state need. Also your willingness to take "at risk kids". If you are willing to take a preemie, medically needy, drug exposured and etc.
In my area Drug exposure is a big one because some kids grow up with just having ADHD as a result and other may have developmental issues and delays.

[Yash]

Originally Posted by adoptionhelp

Hi Everyone,
My husband and I are starting the process of adopting (MAPP training etc) from the state. We're writing on our app. that we'd prefer a child under four; we're open to all races. Are we likely to be able to adopt a child this young?

I've heard mixed thoughts on this with some saying there are many younger AA children available and others saying there are not. If you adopted from the state, how long was your wait? Any input is welcomed. Thanks

I think your ability to adopt a child is young if you're open to race. Are you also open to drug exposure? Most babies in the system have been exposed in utero.

But the biggest factor would be the number of children in and coming into the system in your area....if you live in a small town your wait will be longer.

I live in a very large city so my longest wait was 3 months and that was because I said girl only. My daughter was my shortest wait at six weeks. I was open to children under 1 of all races.

[millie58]

Also depends on number of kids. Most kids have siblings. It took me 3 months because I could only have 2 and they had to be the same sex.