For couples building their families through adoption, how many times you can adopt is a common question. It can become even trickier when you add biological children, international adoption, or foster care adoption into the mix. Like most adoption related things, this issue will also be dependent on the type of adoption you choose, the size of your existing family, and the size of your home.
If you choose to adopt from foster care, it will be dependent on the state or county that you reside. In addition, they will consider how many children are currently living at home, the occupation of the adopting parents, and the method of schooling. If you are a homeschooling family with one parent not working at home, it will likely mean that you will be able to adopt fewer children. Check with your licensing agent for the exact parameters for your county.
Also, international adoption will vary greatly from country to country. You’ll want to do your research; call as many agencies as you can. Since the laws and regulations are constantly changing, licensed agents will be your best resource. They will be able to guide you through your adoption process and make sure that you’re choosing the best fit, country, and child for your family.
Domestic infant adoption will have its parameters for a number of children. It will be different from agency to agency. I will dare say the biggest limitation in domestic infant adoption will be the cost, not the number of children you’re able to adopt. That’s not to say you shouldn’t do it. Those babies and their birth families are worth the fees to ensure that it’s all done legally and ethically.
No matter what limitations you find, I am confident that you will find the right adoption fit for your family. I personally hear of many large families, some strictly through adoption, others formed of biology and adoption children. Make a list of questions for your agency, or agencies that you’re interviewing. Ask as many questions to them as they ask you. Okay, maybe not, but get the details before you begin. Whether you want to adopt two or 10, those plans can always change along the way.
Karla King is a passionate open adoption advocate, adoptive mom, foster mom, wife, reader, avid creator of food, a stay-at-home mom, and Christian. She loves taking care of her family, supporting others on the adoption journey, and watching the world through her children’s eyes.