It’s not uncommon these days for single people to consider adopting a child. They may want to be a parent but not a spouse. Maybe they just don’t want to wait until they’ve found their soulmate to build a family. In Louisiana, unmarried people who are at least 18 can legally adopt children.
That doesn’t mean, however, that seeking to adopt a child as a single person won’t have its challenges.
Single men, even more than women, can encounter some resistance when adopting a child.
What qualifications do you need?
Whether you’re still deciding whether you have what is necessary to be a single adoptive parent or you’re ready to start the process, let’s look at some important requirements.
You don’t need to be wealthy, but you need the financial resources required to raise a child to adulthood. The financial needs of a toddler are nowhere near that of a teen. If you’re relying on your salary, it’s crucial to have enough savings to get you through a tough time if you lose your job or if you or your child has a medical crisis or other unexpected expense.
A support system is crucial for single parents – especially if they work outside the home full-time. This can include a combination of family, friends and paid caregivers. You need to have people you can trust to step in if you can’t be there for your child for any reason.
Consider starting with fostering
If you aren’t already a foster parent, becoming one is the best way to prove to yourself – and adoption agencies – that you can be a responsible, loving parent. Many foster parents go on to adopt their foster children. There are thousands of kids throughout Louisiana who need good foster homes.
Adoption can be a long, sometimes frustrating process. Having experienced legal guidance throughout can help things go more smoothly.
