[CherBear04]

Hello!

My husband and I are planning to adopt in 4-5 years, we are quite young (19 and 21), however it's something we both have felt led to do.
We hear it is a quite tiring process to go through, and we were wondering what we should be preparing for, what we can do now to get ready, and if all of the paperwork has to be filled out at the time of adoption or if any of it can be done now? If all goes according to planned then we should be able to have around $50,000 saved by the time we are ready to adopt.

Thanks for any help!

Cherise

[bajj]

In all honesty, adoption laws change every year, so in 4 or 5 years, any advice you have been given might not be good anymore!

Good luck in your journey!

[atouchofheaven]

read a lot of books. especially about adoption, raising adopted kids, and what to expect. start reading these forums and talk to other adopted parents. that way you are going into the process with your eyes open and your expectations in the right place. here are some suggestions for books:

20 Things Adopted Kids Wish Their Adoptive Parents Knew
The Primal Would
Adoption Parenting; Creating a toolbox, building connections

also, you could explore agencies in your area. go to open houses or classes. we used our state social services and they host "while you are waiting" classes with all sorts of resources and information. you still have a long way to go if you are waiting 4-5 years, but the more you learn and read, the better prepared you will be.

once it gets closer to the time you start the process and are waiting, it's good to make a list of the things you need for what age group you will be looking at adopting. that way if you get a quick call, all you have to do is grab your list and head to the store. you could also read up on the qualifications for homestudy...i know some places make you have a fire extingisher and other rules that might take time to prepare. just some ideas! you have plenty of time though, don't rush.

good luck. hope to see you on the forums more!

[FullQuiverMamma]

If you go through your county, it is free and you won't need 50k. However, you should start the process with your county now, because it may take the whole for years beginning to end, to apply, take the classes get licensed and be referred for an infant. Good for you for planning ahead.