Are There Differences in the Adoption Process Depending on the Child’s Age?
Each year, there are more than 400,000 children in foster care, according to the US Department of Health and Human Services. Approximately 100,000 of them are currently awaiting adoption. If you’re considering an adoption Oklahoma City for an older child and you’re wondering if the process differs from adopting a baby or toddler, then you’re right. Older child adoptions are adoptees between toddlers to 21 years of age. Here are some things to know about adopting an older child:
The Process to Adopt an Older Child is Very Similar
The average age of a foster child is 7.7 years old. The adoption rate for children beyond the age of 8 dramatically decreases compared to the adoption rate for infants. Rates fall further when a teenager approaches adulthood. Between 9 and 20, the number of kids who need adoption has become available.
Countless older kids are still awaiting their forever family, even though adoption Oklahoma can be quite hard for them. Though many children in need of families are nearly grownups, they still need the guidance and feeling of connection that a family provides.
Older Adoptees Help with the Process
Adoption legislation and rules in several places mandate that adolescents provide their permission to be adopted. In Oklahoma, kids ages 12 and older must consent to being adopted.
In adopting an older kid, the adolescent might be involved in the decision. The adoptee has the opportunity to entirely choose and consent to become a member of your family when they provide their consent!
You Can Adopt Someone Older Than 18
Every youngster yearns for a family to love and care for them. There are numerous states where it is permissible to adopt someone at least 18 years old.
Even throughout adolescence and the early stages of life, having a solid network of family members is critical, and an Oklahoma Adoption Attorney will help you.
Adopted Youngsters Fare Better Than Counterparts Who Age Out
They generally fare better in high school and college since they are supported by a caring family rather than for themselves in foster care. Those who aren’t adopted have a lower college graduation rate, so let an Oklahoma City Adoption Attorney help you begin the process to help one child.
In addition, adopted children are less likely to be homeless, unemployed, addicted, or incarcerated than their biological offspring. Increasing a child’s prospects and possibilities in life can be as simple as adopting a child.
Adoptees over 13 are Eligible for Many Benefits/Supplements
Financial aid programs are available for students who have been in foster care or adopted from foster care.
Adopted children over the age of 13 are more likely to be eligible for financial aid, so keep this in mind as you make plans for your adopted child.
Up to $5,000 per year is available to students enrolled in college or vocational training programs.
Healthcare Assistance for Kids Adopted out of Foster Care
Families who adopt children from foster care have access to medical and psychiatric services. Disability assistance, psychological health therapy, health care, and dental services are just some types of help that may be available to a child.
How an OKC Adoption Attorney can Help
Since the adoption process can prove lengthy depending on age and other factors, it is wise to consult an adoption attorney at Lisa R. Howard P.L.L.C. We know the process inside out and will help navigate the complexities to make the start of your new family smoother.