Adopting is a wonderful life-changing decision for both you and the child.
Each adoption story is unique, and the age of the child you adopt can completely define your experience.
To mark Adoption Month, Metro.co.uk is running a series of articles breaking down the process and sharing stories from those who have gone through it.
Here, we look at whether you can choose the age of the child you adopt.
Can you choose the age of the child you adopt?
Just like choosing the gender of the child you adopt, you can also choose their age.
When applying through an adoption agency, they will ask you if you have an age preference and will try to match you with a child of that age.
However, it is possible that your child match may be a year or so older or younger than you requested.
You can also give a more general preference, such as ‘below the age of four.’
Do babies get adopted quicker?
Babies and toddlers are often adopted quickly for a number of reasons. Often, adoptive parents want the experience of raising a baby.
The competition means that adopting a child under the age of three may take longer than an older child, as there is a higher demand from prospective parents.
Most children in need of adoption are between the ages of 9 and 20.
You may want to consider adopting an older child or teenage, who really needs the support of a loving family.
MORE: Nine things you must consider before adopting a child
MORE: Can you put yourself up for adoption?
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Adoption Month
Adoption Month is a month-long series covering all aspects of adoption.
For the next four weeks, which includes National Adoption Week from October 14-19, we will be speaking to people who have been affected by adoption in some way, from those who chose to welcome someone else's child into their family to others who were that child.
We'll also be talking to experts in the field and answering as many questions as possible associated with adoption, as well as offering invaluable advice along the way.
If you have a story to tell or want to share any of your own advice please do get in touch at adoptionstories@metro.co.uk.
source https://metro.co.uk/2020/10/22/can-you-choose-age-of-child-adopt-baby-toddler-teenager-13438624/
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