HowStuffWorks Newsletter
Adopting a child into your family can be a life-changing experience. Read about adoption in these articles.
More Lifestyle Topics to Explore:
Although we associate adoption mainly with children, there are many good reasons why one adult may adopt another. There are also some fraudulent ones too.
By Dave Roos
You want to get adoption records, but you're not sure how to do it. Learn about how to get adoption records in this article.
Usually, you'll need a lawyer to navigate the adoption process. Learn how to apply for adoption of a child that you're a legal guardian for from this article.
Advertisement
Many families who wish to adopt look for a child in another country. Find out how international adoption works in this article.
Although more children are available for adoption internationally than domestically, the adoption process is longer and it costs more. Learn about the pros and cons of international adoption in this article.
Adoptions can be closed (there is no contact between the birth and adoptive families), mediated (with contact through an attorney or agency) or open (where there is direct contact). Find out about the benefits of open child adoption in this article.
Unless a mistake was made in the adoption procedure, you can't get back your child once someone else adopts him or her. Learn about whether you can ever get your child back after adoption from this article.
Advertisement
Giving up a child for adoption is often a heart-wrenching decision. Learn how you can find a child that you gave up for adoption in this article.
When a child is given up for adoption, the process is meant to be irrevocable, although there are some instances when the birth parents may change their minds. Learn about reversal of child adoption in this article.
Thousands of children are adopted by Americans every year. Learn how adoption works, including the types of adoption, how to find an adoption agency and about post-adoption services.
A healthy adoption is one where the child is placed where he or she will thrive, no matter what the medical considerations may be. How can you minimize health complications?
Advertisement
What do you need to do before bringing home your new adopted baby? Learn the four steps of adoption to make sure you're adequately prepared for a new child.
Every child needs a sense of background and identity, and this can be especially confusing for adopted children. Read about how to help your adopted children establish their racial identity.