[rorismom]

Hi,
We are just in the beginning stages of International Adoption. We are 33 and 36 with 3 children. Can anyone PM me agency recommendations or give me some resources to research where to go from here? I am guessing finding an agency would be the first step?? Any advice would be greatly appreciated as we feel really lost!

[momraine]

I think you first step is choosing a country. My suggestion is to write down each country you are interested in on a separate page. Then research that country. Some you will not qualify for because they want you to not have any kids or to have only one or two. Look at each countries requirements, and then remove any countries from your list that you don't qualify for. Then you need to think about if you want to travel, how many trips you are willing to make and how long you can be gone. You can probably eliminate a few more countries that way. Then look at other things until you have narrowed it down. If you can narrow it down to just a couple you may be able to find an agency that works in both. When you have agencies you like get lots of references, do research and then you can make an informed decision.

[DPline]

Exactly what Lorraine said.

Just wanted to add a link. Adoptions Home | Intercountry Adoption The US State Department website is a great place to find accurate, up-to-date information regarding which countries are open to international adoption, who can adopt, and the children available for adoption.

Good luck!

[Poodle]

I agree the above. Research the countries and everything you can about the adoption process from those countries. And do lots of research on agencies. I suggest asking for referances from the agencies you are interested in. It is important to have a agency you are comfortable with since you are going to be putting tones of trust in their hands. Also try and find some blogs that people have written that have adopted from countries you might be interested in. Same goes for agencies.