Combatting the Common Misconceptions in Foster Child Adoption

 Posted on May 26, 2017 in Family Law

An annually released report from the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) indicates that there are nearly 6,000 children in the custody of the state’s foster care system. Estimates suggest that there are as many as 100,000 throughout the country, waiting for a forever family. Unfortunately, there are several misconceptions about these children that ultimately decrease their rate of adoption. This misinformation is not only inaccurate, but it is also damaging to the children in urgent need of a safe and loving home. The following information combats these inaccuracies, and it provides details on where families can find assistance with the foster care adoption process.

You Will Be Pushed into Adopting Extra Children

A lot of people seem to worry that getting involved with the foster care system means taking on more children than they can handle. Quite the opposite is usually true. Although the system is certainly overloaded, DCFS tends to err on the side of caution when placing children with a family. Many of these children have already witnessed abuse or neglect; the last thing they need is a home where they do not receive the love and attention they deserve. So, if you can only adopt one child, speak up and say so. You have control over the size of your family.

Foster Children Are Harder to Parent

One of the primary concerns that potential adoptive parents have is that a foster child will be more difficult to parent; this is not always the case. While it is true that some of the children do have disabilities and diagnosable conditions, most do not. Yes, many foster children have experienced neglect or abuse, but they only need a safe and loving home where they can heal. Additionally, adoptive parents are provided with support and resources to help them through the transition process, which can make a world of difference in the child’s ability to adjust.

You Must Build a Relationship with the Birth Family

Although the foster care system is designed to provide a safe environment for children while they work to reunite the family, children who are placed for adoption no longer have ties to their biological family. Essentially, they have been deemed unsuitable, for one reason or another. You can stay in touch with the birth family if you feel it is both safe and in the best interest of your child, but you are not obligated to do so. Further, if you do decide to maintain contact, you get to set the parameters on what that looks like for your family.

Our DuPage County Family Law Attorneys Can Help You Start the Adoption Process

At Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices, we celebrate the many ways that families come together. We also strive to protect the best interests of children and will work hard to ensure your adoption process is a pleasant one. Whether you are considering foster adoption, international adoption, or domestic adoption, our DuPage County family law attorneys can help. Schedule your free initial consultation to get started. Call 630-932-9100 today.