How to Tell Whether You Are Ready to Adopt a Child

You long for a child to call your own. Whether you already have biological children, suffer from infertility or do not have a partner to help make your dream of having a family come true, you must be prepared to take this giant step. Parents-to-be need to understand the many demands and responsibilities of adoption before making the final decision to proceed.

Instructions

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      Examine your financial status. Can you really afford a child? You may wish to speak to a friend or relative who has youngsters in her household to determine exactly how much it costs to raise a child. There are also the costs of the adoption process itself -- an attorney, inspections, court costs and other expenses must all be taken into account. According to a "Preconception Weekly" article titled "Are You Ready to Adopt," it can cost up to $30,000 for a domestic adoption. While money may not be your main concern, you still need to be financially stable to adequately provide for a child. Working overtime, taking on extra projects or being available for travel may no longer be an option for you, especially if you are single, so this lost income must also be taken into consideration.

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      Think about whether you are ready to give up your independence and freedom. If you have the ability to travel, eat at adult-only restaurants, dance the night away or move from city to city at the drop of a hat, you may wish to examine your feelings about losing this independence and mobility. Habits such as drinking, smoking and even the manner in which you dress may require major alterations. A new baby or child in the home will squelch any freedom you may currently have -- it is no longer going to be about you and what you want, but about that bundle of joy that you wish to welcome into your household.

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      Inspect your home to be sure it is conducive to raising children. If it is a structure with glass sculptures, a multitude of balconies, no backyard or just very little room, you may not be able to picture a young child in your midst. Children need space -- space that will hold up to rambunctious activity -- and a safe environment for them to play in. If you decide to adopt, you may have to move or make huge adjustments or additions to the existing structure of your home.

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      Take into account how the rest of your family feels about adoption. If you do not have the support of your spouse or your marriage is unstable, adoption may not be a viable option. Single individuals interested in adopting must be physically, financially and psychologically strong enough to raise a child on their own. Also your close friendships may change -- single friends may not be happy with children in their midst and others may question and even judge your decision to adopt.

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