Guidance for Adoptive Parents

How Do I Choose an Adoption Agency?

At our agency, we are very good at what we do. We have the expertise to help make your parenting dreams come true and serve any eligible applicant.

At our Texas adoption agency we are dedicated to placing children regardless of race, creed, nationality, or ethnic background into homes all over the United States.

If you are a prospective parent, do not hesitate to contact our compassionate professionals today.

We are licensed by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services as a child-placing agency. However, we are much more than that. We provide you with a relaxed, inviting environment where you can learn about the process of adoption and how it may benefit your growing family.

How Does the Adoption Process Work?

Essentially, we get to know each other as our adoption agency advises you about every eligibility requirement.

Texas Adoption Process

The adoption process in Texas may vary depending on the specific circumstances and the type of adoption you pursue (such as domestic, international, or foster care adoption). However, here is a general outline of the adoption process for parents looking to adopt a child in Texas:

Orientation and Education:

• Attend an adoption orientation: Many adoption agencies and organizations in Texas offer orientation sessions where you can learn about the different types of adoption, requirements, and processes.
• Complete required training: In Texas, prospective adoptive parents are often required to attend adoption education and training classes. These classes provide information on adoption procedures, parenting techniques, and addressing the needs of adopted children.

Application and Home Study:

• Submit an application: Complete the agency's application process, which usually includes providing personal and background information, references, financial statements, and consent to a background check.
• Home study: Undergo a home study conducted by a licensed social worker. The home study involves interviews, home visits, and assessments to evaluate your suitability as adoptive parents, including your readiness, stability, and ability to provide a safe and nurturing environment for a child.

Matching and Placement:

• Profile creation: Create a profile or adoptive parent profile book that highlights your family, lifestyle, values, and what you can offer a child.
• Waiting for a match: Once your home study is complete, you may wait for a child to be matched with your family. The waiting time can vary depending on various factors such as your preferences, the child's needs, and availability.
• Placement: When a suitable match is found, you will be notified and given information about the child. You may have the opportunity to review the child's profile and medical history before making a decision.
• Pre-placement visits: Prior to the finalization of the adoption, you may have pre-placement visits with the child to establish a relationship and bond.

Finalization:

• Adoption petition: With the assistance of an attorney, you will file an adoption petition in court to initiate the legal process.
• Post-placement visits and reports: Following the child's placement in your home, post-placement visits will be conducted by a social worker to ensure the child's well-being and to prepare a report for the court.
• Adoption hearing: Attend a court hearing where a judge will review the case, evaluate the suitability of the adoption, and issue a final decree of adoption if all legal requirements are met.
• Legalization and post-finalization steps: After the adoption is finalized, you will receive an amended birth certificate for the child, and you can proceed with updating legal documents and making necessary arrangements for the child's care and well-being.

Please note that the adoption process in Texas can be complex, and it is recommended to consult with adoption professionals, such as adoption agencies, attorneys, or the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, for detailed and up-to-date information specific to your situation.

Confidentiality through the Adoption Process

All of the above always remains completely confidential as we are committed to protecting our adoption clients.

After attending an informational meeting about our services, you will be asked to submit a "profile" consisting of non-identifying photos and information about yourselves that will be shared with birth parents. We will always help you with this and you will have our guidance throughout the entire adoption process.

Related Reading

• Experiences of an Adoption Placement Coordinator
• Adoptive Parents: Where Do I Start?

Dedicated to Helping Children Find Caring Homes

Remember that we work in the best interest of the child, not necessarily on a first-come, first-serve basis. The match or quality of the placement is what matters most to Cradle of Life Adoption Agency. After placement, we offer you counseling and other support. Six to 18 months after the placement, the adoption is consummated with an appearance in court and to ensure that the child is officially yours. Visit our testimonials page to read what our clients have to say about our services.