As you start considering your capacity and commitment to adopt a child or youth from foster care, it can be helpful to explore the variety of information and support resources that are available to you. This page provides an overview of the various stages of the adoption process through selected materials and links to State-specific information.
About Adoption From Foster Care
AdoptUsKids
Provides a general overview of adoption from foster care, including links to short, interactive modules to assist in the decision; information on trauma; adoption assistance; and real families’ stories.
Adopting Older Kids
A Family for Every Child
Discusses adopting older children from foster care and how adults should prepare for bringing home an older child.
Foster Care Adoption
Creating a Family
Offers information about foster care adoption, including an interview with a mother who adopted from foster care. This web section also provides blogs, suggested books, and other resources.
How to Adopt
North American Council on Adoptable Children
Assists prospective adoptive parents in making an informed decision about fostering or adopting a child from the U.S. foster care system and outlines the path to a successful adoption.
What Is Foster Care Adoption?
Consider Adoption
Provides a general overview of the foster to adoption process, including timing, pros and cons, and how this decision impacts your family.
State Guides and Manuals Search
Child Welfare Information Gateway
Lists State publications about adoption that are written for foster, adoptive, and prospective adoptive parents.
Who Can Adopt and Foster?
AdoptUsKids
Illustrates the basic characteristics of good foster or adoptive parents and includes a link to an interactive map of State foster care and adoption eligibility criteria.
Who May Adopt, Be Adopted, or Place a Child for Adoption?
Heart Galleries in My State
Heart Gallery of America
Features a comprehensive list of providers and photolisting resources for all States.
National Foster Care & Adoption Directory Search
Child Welfare Information Gateway
Provides contact information for public adoption agencies by State.
Search AdoptUsKids Photolisting
AdoptUSKids
Gives access to the only national database of thousands of children available for adoption.
Accessing Adoption Support and Preservation Services
Finding and Working with Adoption-Competent Therapists
State Post Adoption Services and Programs
Support for Parents Who Adopt From Foster Care
AdoptUsKids
Provides an overview of the services that are available to families after adoption.