The age of a child is quite important to many families looking to adopt. At every stage of life, children come with certain benefits and burdens that will affect the way your entire family operates. If you are looking to adopt, consider these factors in age that may come into play.
Why Some Consider Age
When beginning the adoption process, many people take the age of their soon-to-be child into consideration. Some simply want a child to love and to offer a stable home environment, but thinking of age is natural a concern. The age of children already in the home may influence the age of the adopted child, as some people may want a child of similar age, or they want a younger child to grow up in the home after the older kids leave. The needs of the child, the effort it requires to raise them, and their ability to contribute to the family dynamic will all be partially determined by his or her age, so it must be considered carefully.
Adopting Babies
Most people have a preference for infants and toddlers when adopting. This is a benefit for the child as they will have the care they need at an early age. They will also be better able to adapt to being brought into a family without feeling awkward the way an older child might. The benefit for the parent is the chance to have an infant to take care of and dote on, and being able to raise the child without worrying about making them uncomfortable by the change in environment. A problem with adoption at this age, is the fact that the child may be unaware of their origin, and if the parent chooses not to disclose the information, they may find out about having been adopted in an abrupt or unexpected way.
Adopting Older Children and Teenagers
Older children need care as well, and are often overlooked because of the overwhelming preference for infants. Like younger children, these kids come with their own benefits and disadvantages. Advantages of adopting older children include the fact that they are already aware of their origin, and will be somewhat self-reliant in their everyday activities. The drawback is the initial phases of blending the family may be awkward for an older child, and they may feel like an outsider. Many older kids are never adopted, and they eventually are expected to fend for themselves once they reach 18 and are emancipated.
No matter the age, adopting a child is a tiring, serious, and overwhelming process. Even for the child, the effects of adoption may require the assistance of professionals. Look for a professional with a masters in social work or psychology that can cater to the child’s emotional development down the line, and make circumstances easier for everyone to adjust to.
