Frequently Asked Questions about Adoption

Infants

How long does it take to complete an adoption?

What about adoption of aboriginal children?

May single people adopt?

Should children be told they are adopted?

How can I get in touch with other adoptive families?

Can adoptive families receive any financial help?

Can adoptees and their birth parents find one another?

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Are there many infants available for adoption?
There are fewer infants available for adoption than there were a decade ago. There is often a waiting period for people who want to adopt a healthy infant.

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How long does it take to complete an adoption?
After the child is placed with a family there is usually a minimum six-month waiting period from the time the child moves into the home until the adoption is completed. This is the time to examine any difficulties that might arise in the relationship. When everyone is ready to complete the adoption, the child welfare agency applies to the court for an adoption order. The order makes the adoptive applicant(s), the child's parent(s), and the child a member of the adoptive family.

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What about adoption of aboriginal children?
The Child and Family Services Act stresses the importance of the child's emotional well-being and cultural background in relation to adoption. In keeping with this commitment there is particular recognition given to preserving the unique heritage and cultural ties of aboriginal children.

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May single people adopt?
Yes. Single people may apply to adopt a child. As with all adoptions, the support of family and friends is an important factor.

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Should children be told they are adopted?
Yes. Children who have always known they were adopted are likely to have good feelings about it, especially if the word "adoption" has had happy associations for them from an early age.

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How can I get in touch with other adoptive parent(s)?
There are some very active adoption support groups in Ontario. Use the links on this web site to get more information.

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Can adoptive families receive any financial help?
In some adoption placements arranged by a child welfare agenyc, the agency may approve a financial subsidy to help parents who wish to adopt a child with special needs. The amount will vary depending on the circumstances.

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Can adoptees and their birth parents find one another?
Parents should be aware that the children they adopt may want more information about their birth parents.

The Adoption Disclosure Registry exists for this purpose and can be contacted at:
adoption.disclosure@css.gov.on.ca