[DCJazzy]

Hi I am a single african american woman in washington dc who is just beginning my search. I am going to a few information meetings. I am interested in adopting an infant through a domestic program. I would love to chat with others going through this also. I especially would lke to know what child care options you are considering. The cost here can be quite expensive.

[sugarmuffin]

I am single and african american as well. The child care options am looking at include asking everyone I know, talking to Social Workers and etc. Don't let anything deter you from your goal there is so much help out there. I remember before buying my house I kept thinking what if, it breaks down, what if I lose my job, what if I can't find the "right one" but the minute I conqured my fears everything fell into place. I know it will be the same with my baby, at times I keep thinking of all the hurdles but prayer keeps me focused.

Hope this helps

[vernellinnj]

Single AA fostermom here. Hope to adopt my fc, whom I've had for 2 years, this year. Childcare is expensive - plain and simple. If you're open to a home daycare that may be more cost effective. I utilized a church family member to care for my all of my fc when I first got them (I've had 3 kids..2 toddlers, 1 infant straight from hospital).

But I agree...don't be deterred. Good luck!!!

[makarios79]

Also a single AA woman here...I am the adoptive mom of 2 boys ages 2 &3. Adopted from Foster Care. When they were foster kids the state paid for daycare, but now that they are adopted I pay for it out of pocket.

I found an in home daycare that I LOVE LOVE LOVE!!!! My son's used to be at a large center with over 100 kids and their behavior was out of control ...They are both doing so much better because they get way more attention!!! But anyway I pay $200 week for my boys...which is fairly cheap for this area, but is still expensive for this single mom. Their adoption subsidy covers most of it, but I still have to come out of pocket...

If your not opposed to it...home daycare or having someone who is retired keep your child may be the least expensive option.

[Asha0314]

Hi,
I am very fortunate to have family members provide child care. I adopted an infant thru a private domestic program about a year ago. I am also a single AA female.

[Fe2002]

I decided to get an au pair. I was hesitant at first, but it has turned out to be one of the best decisions I've made (after submitting my app to my agency). The downside is that you only have a contract for up to 2 years (there is a 1 yr. minimum).

[angel619]

Hi--I'm also a single AA woman. I was approved for adoption in August 2007 (adopting domestically) and am now beginning the process to become a foster mother. Best of luck in your adoption journey!

[SavannahGirl]

I agree childcare is expensive and you just have to adjust your budget to make it happen. I have a 3.5 year old dd who was adopted privately. Until a few months ago she was at a licensed home daycare run by a friend from my church. It was important to me that when she was an infant that she had one consistent caregiver. It worked out well because dd was exposed to less children and was hardly ever sick. I think I had to take only two days off in the past three years because of her illnesses. It also cost less than most daycare centers in the area. A few months ago I moved her to a Montessori program at a preschool. So childcare costs have increased significantly but it's worth it because she's learning alot.

I'm currently in the process to adopt again. This time through the foster care system.