Considerations Related to Age when Adopting a Child
by
George S. Frederick on Jul. 20, 2015
Divorce & Family Law Divorce & Family Law Adoption
Summary: The age range of adopted children varies widely and, depending on one’s circumstances, adopting parents may consider several factors prior to making a final decision.
The age range of adopted children varies widely and, depending on one’s circumstances, adopting parents may consider several factors prior to making a final decision.
Adopting a Young Child
Adopting parents may desire to have the same experiences as biological parents and therefore prefer to adopt infants or very young children. In certain circumstances, biological parents may agree to place a child with adoptive parents prior to the child’s birth. In these situations, adoptive parents can even be given custody immediately upon the child’s release from the hospital.
The adoption of a young child allows adopting parents to provide the child with preferable health care at a very early age. Thus, parents have a more complete medical history of the child.
Finally, adopting a young child allows parents to provide the type of education they believe is best for the child at an early age—a young child has a more limited development of ideas and personality.
Adopting an Older Child
Alternatively, adopting an older child, such as a teenager, may be more desirable for some than adopting a child who requires constant care. An older child may be advantageous to individuals who, due to age, health, or work, feel they are unable to provide the proper care for an infant or toddler.
FMLA and Child Adoption
It is important to note, particularly for potential adoptive parents of a young child, that the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) requires employers to give workers 12 workweeks of leave in a 12-month period to individuals who adopt a child. In other words, adoptive parents are given similar leave time as biological parents to care for their children.
Help Growing Your Family
If you are considering adopting a child, young or old, and would like more information about the adoption process, please contact an Illinois family law attorney today. At MKFM Law we are happy to use our knowledge and experience to help you bring home a new addition to your family. Call us today at 630-665-7300 to schedule your consultation. We look forward to speaking with you.
