While You Wait

One of the most challenging aspects of the adoption process

Waiting happens...

  • after the voicemail you left an agency to ask about adoption
  • while you are waiting to attend an orientation
  • after you submitted your application
  • until training classes begin
  • until your home study begins
  • after your home study is approved
  • while you are waiting for a placement
  • after you have a child placed in your home

... and finishes at finalization!

While you wait

Waiting can be frustrating, lonely, and disempowering. Although you must make many decisions throughout this time(When is the right time to build our family through adoption? Can we handle this? Can we afford it? What age/gender of child do we want? Shall I quit my job? Etc.), mostly it feels as if this very important part of your life is not in your own hands.

During this difficult time we encourage you to use the time to learn as much as you can.

Some ideas you might consider are:

Use our lending library

Engage with your school district

Visit your school district and introduce yourself. Learn about the types of services that may be available to your child with special needs.

Identify pediatricians in your area who are sensitive to adoption-related issues and/or have a specialty in certain diagnoses.

Check out local mental health providers, both public and private, who have experience and expertise working with adoptive families.

Find professionals with expertise working with adoptive families

Create your support network

Learn about pre/post adoptive parent support groups. It can be especially helpful getting to know those who are on the same journey.

Begin to line up your support network (child care, respite care providers, therapist, pediatrician, support group[s] and other adoptive parents).

Access online supports for waiting adoptive parents through groups and blogs; there are many to choose from.

Consider becoming a respite care provider for another adoptive or foster family.

Contact your local department of social services about becoming a respite care provider

Attend classes or seminars

Attend adoption-related classes or seminars in your area. View upcoming events on our calendar.

View this comprehensive website: Children's Information Gateway, which previously received a Forbes’ Best award.

Find resources online

Attend an adoption party or a Heart Gallery exhibit. Volunteer at your local Raise the Future office or another organization that serves children in your city.

Don't forget to have fun!

Know that the child who eventually joins your home will be more than worth waiting for!