The definition of foster care and adoption can often blur in the general public’s mind. But if you are considering becoming a parent in either way, it’s important to understand the difference.
A good starting point is knowing the intended goal and outcome for each parenting scenario. It is also important to consider the various factors that will have an impact on you, such as financial commitment. Taking the time to fully explore each option will help you decide which path is the most suitable for you.
Foster care vs. adoption: The goals of each
The ultimate goal of foster care is to temporarily care for a child until they can reunify with their biological family. Their temporary stay with you gives a child time to recover from events that led to the separation, ranging from emotional abuse, neglect, and even physical abuse. It also gives the birth family time to get the assistance they need to maintain a safe and nurturing environment for the child to return to.
With foster care, the state retains legal custody. The foster parent makes most daily decisions (such as school and travel) in collaboration with and/or obtains the necessary approvals from the agency they are working with. Mental and physical health and emotional support is also facilitated through the foster care agency.
With adoption, adoptive parents take full legal and financial responsibility for the child permanently. The child becomes a full and permanent legal member of the adoptive family.
Foster care vs. adoption: Exploring the motivations of each
Why do people adopt?
American Adoptions states that there are many reasons why people choose to adopt. Common reasons include infertility, single status, same-sex marriage, and fear of passing down genetic issues.
Why do people foster?
Some reasons people choose to foster a child include:
- They are new empty nesters who have a calling to continue to parent and help a child in need.
- They experienced neglect or abuse as a child and want to help other children in similar situations
- They want to foster understanding, empathy, and growth with their biological children.
- They are selfless humanitarians who want to help make a difference in a child’s life.
In either case, good parenting and positive parenting styles can be achieved by researching and obtaining parenting skills and training. Preparation is the best way to achieve success for you and the child in your care.
Is foster care as important as adoption?
Without question, foster care is just as important as adoption. Over 391,000 children are in the US foster care system. Many more children from the US and international locations are waiting to be adopted. Both settings can turn a hopeless situation into one of hope and promise for a child.
Being a foster parent is a selfless commitment to providing a child, or children, a temporary safe haven. They give them the support to heal and build the skills necessary to grow.
An adoptive parent plays a similar role, providing a forever home filled with love and support.
Each plays a significant role in shaping a child’s life and, in return, a stronger world to live in.
Foster care vs. adoption: financial considerations
Hard costs are a significant point of difference between fostering and adoption.
Depending on the type of adoption you seek, such as private vs. open or domestic, U.S. vs. International, adoptions can range from $15,000 to $80,000 per the Adoption Network. The costs cover a range of fees, including legal, agency, travel, medical bills, and required home study services. There is a growing trend for employers to create adoption-friendly workplaces, offering adoption benefits as part of their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Foster care costs are minimal, according to Consider Adoption. Once you become a licensed foster care parent, you will receive a stipend to cover typical costs like food, hygiene, school, and even birthday celebration costs. Additionally, most medical bills are covered by the state Medicaid program.
Fostering to adopt: is this an option?
Yes, fostering can end in adoption and generally for minimal cost. The Casey Foundation reported that only 47% of kids exiting foster care will be reunified with their biological family in 2021, down from 57% in 2000. Additionally, 25% of kids exiting foster care are adopted, 18% are placed with a legal guardian through kinship or fictive kin-care, and sadly, 9% “age out.”
It’s important to remember that the true goal of fostering is to reunify the child with their biological parents. It is imperative to work hand in hand with the agency and the bio parents toward that goal to avoid disappointment for all parties involved. Each situation is unique. The court determines the permanency goal for a child with input from all parties involved, and the goal can change over time.
Your parenting journey
Ultimately, your drive to be a parental figure in a child’s life can come in many forms. Any situation has pros and cons, but research and soul-searching can help you decide.
Fostering a child comes with a team of experts to provide continued support throughout the fostering journey. There is also financial support to help alleviate the costs of raising a child. Your parenting journey may prove to be a bit more challenging if you commit to caring for a child who has suffered severe trauma, but you will have the support you need to navigate hard times. You also have the ability to help multiple children.
Adoption can fulfill the dream of becoming a permanent family. But it is important to understand the high costs and weigh the pros and cons as it relates to your family. Obtaining both financial and emotional support may not be as easy as fostering, but it is available.
Spend time researching adoption and foster care agencies to ensure your personal needs and goals are met. And keep planting the seeds for a bright future.
