Choosing Foster Adoption |
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CJ, 9, Anthony, 21 mos., Sandy, 6, and Larry, 7
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Foster Care Statistics
- There are approximately 513,000 children in foster care in the U.S. An estimated 114,000 are eligible for adoption.
- In 2005, about 51,000 children were adopted from foster care.
- 68% of parents who adopt from foster care are married couples, 27% are single females, 3% are single males, and 2% are unmarried couples.
- Median age of child in foster care: 10.6 years.
- Race/ethnicity of children in fostser care: 41% Caucasian, 32% African-American, 18% Hispanic, 1% Asian, 8% other.
- The average child in foster care goes through three different placements and stays in the system for nearly 29 months.
- Each year, about 20,000 children age out of foster care.
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There's new hope for children in foster care as more and more families are considering foster adoption. 114,000 children in the US foster care system are waiting for permanent, loving families.
Here you'll find resources for foster adoption, personal stories by families who adopted foster children, and links to national organizations to help you get started.
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Foster Adoption: The Basics
Personal Stories from Foster Adopters
- The Second Half of My Life
I'd been a hard-driving reporter and happily single. But now I was ready for something more.
- Special Delivery
At first, we envisioned welcoming a baby into our
home. But we soon discovered that dopting older children was right
for us.
- Fostering Love
The emotional risks were daunting. But foster adoption
was still the best option for me.
- Changing My Name to
Mom
As she prepares for the adoption of her third child,
the author knows it is not just she who must be ready, but also
the 9-year-old girl she's fallen in love with.
Making Older Child Adoption Work
- Keys to Easing Adjustment
Children do not want to be different from their peers. Giving them the skill to answer intrusive and embarrassing questions is critical.
- Keeping Our Children Connected
We've worked hard to establish and maintain contact with the families that came before us.
- A Healthy Attachment
Whatever your childís history, responsive parenting is key to a secure, loving relationship.
Best Books for Foster Adopters
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