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Expert Q&A

	By Christine Adamec Adoption Expert

How hard is it to adopt as a single mother? It seems like it would be impossible. In a couple of years, when I am in my 30s, I would like to adopt a child."

Many unmarried people adopt babies and children of all ages from the United States and other countries, and most agencies welcome single applicants. Probably the greatest percentage of singles is comprised of those who adopt babies from other countries, since there's an urgent need for parents for infants and children living in orphanages overseas. However, singles who want to adopt babies or older children born in the United States can also succeed. Some support groups specialize in helping singles to adopt, although most adoptive parent groups with married parents will also provide advice and assistance to singles.

As with married couples, social workers look at whether singles have a strong desire to adopt, can afford to support a child and will probably make good parents based on any past experience they've had with children. Social workers may also ask singles if they have backup help. That means that, in the event that you become ill or incapacitated, you can name someone else who could take care of the child. It's a good idea to consider this issue before you adopt.

Check out Chris Adamec's book, There Are Babies to Adopt"

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