A Guide to Adoption for Parents and Families in the Western Suburbs

Are you considering adoption? If you are, you’re about to embark on one of life’s most profound transformations. Of course, like any life transition, there are bound to be hurdles along the way. 

While there will be challenges, that doesn’t mean that the adoption process for parents can’t be rewarding. 

All you need is an understanding of the legal adoption process, family adoption resources, and, of course, a genuine desire to welcome a new member into your loving home and family. 

Learn everything you need to know in our step-by-step adoption guide for parents and families. 

1. Choose How You Want to Adopt

The path to adoption begins with choosing how you want to adopt. Each approach offers distinct benefits and considerations, and understanding these differences helps you make an informed decision that aligns with your vision of family building.

Domestic Infant Adoption

Working with an agency or attorney, domestic infant adoption involves adopting a newborn or infant within the United States. 

Illinois law requires a minimum six-month supervisory period before finalization, during which social workers conduct home visits to ensure the placement is thriving. The waiting period for domestic infant adoption can vary significantly, from months to years. Your openness to different backgrounds, whether or not you have a disability, and other circumstances can all affect your waiting period.

Foster-to-Adopt

Many children in Illinois’ foster care system need permanent homes. When you become a foster parent, you provide stability for a child while working through the legal adoption process. 

This path often involves older children or sibling groups and requires specific training to address potential trauma histories. The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) facilitates these adoptions, providing various family adoption resources throughout the journey.

International Adoption

While more complex due to varying international laws, international adoption connects you with children from countries around the world. Requirements differ by country, but all international adoptions must comply with the Hague Convention standards when applicable. 

2. Navigate the Legal Adoption Process

The legal process can seem intimidating, but breaking it down into manageable steps makes it more approachable.

Home Studies and Documentation

In Illinois, all adoptions require a home study conducted by a licensed agency, including  background checks, and court appearances. 

This assessment evaluates your readiness to parent and typically includes: 

• Interviews

• Home visits

• Background checks

• Documentation of financial stability. 
  

While thorough, remember this process exists to ensure children are placed in safe, nurturing environments.

Legal Representation and Costs

We recommend working with an attorney experienced in Illinois adoption law who can guide you through the specific requirements for your chosen path. 

When budgeting for adoption, consider all potential costs including agency fees, legal expenses, travel if necessary, and post-adoption support services. Many employers offer adoption assistance programs, and federal tax credits can help offset expenses. 

3. Build Secure Attachments With Your Adopted Child

Forming strong bonds with your child is crucial for their emotional development and your family’s wellbeing. Attachment may develop differently with adopted children, particularly those who experienced early trauma or have had multiple caregivers.

Creating Connection Through Consistency

Attachment develops through consistent, responsive caregiving. We recommend providing predictable routines while remaining flexible enough to respond to your child’s unique needs. 

Physical comfort like hugs should be offered but not forced, allowing your child to set the pace for physical affection and build trust. 

Also, creating a “yes environment” where your child can safely explore builds confidence and security.

Honoring Your Child’s Story

For older children, life books documenting their story (including birth family when appropriate) help integrate their past with their present. 

Regular “special time” — even just 15 minutes daily of child-directed play or activity — strengthens your connection in meaningful ways. Acknowledging rather than ignoring your child’s history validates their experiences and helps them develop a cohesive sense of identity.

4. Be Prepared for Common Behavioral Challenges (and Address Them)

Adopted children may experience unique emotional needs stemming from their early experiences. Understanding these dynamics helps you respond with empathy and appropriate interventions when challenges arise.

Processing Grief and Identity

Grief and loss feelings might emerge at unexpected times, even years after adoption. Identity questions become particularly important during adolescence when adopted teens naturally explore who they are in relation to both birth and adoptive families.

Managing Testing Behaviors

Some children may test boundaries severely, unconsciously checking if you’ll remain committed when their behavior becomes challenging. When behavioral or emotional concerns arise, seeking support early can prevent small issues from escalating. 

Support for Adoptive Families: Resources 

No family should navigate the adoption journey alone. The western Chicago suburbs offer valuable resources for adoptive families at every stage.

One community resource is the Illinois Adoption Advisory Council, which is a volunteer group working with DCFS to improve services and mentor new adoptive families.

You can also try the DCFS’s post-adoption support services. These funded programs offer crisis intervention, guardianship, counseling referrals, and advocacy after finalization.

Take the Next Step

Adoption can transform your life in a way no other experience can. However, like in any transformation, your mental well-being should be a priority. If you need a team who can provide you with the mental and emotional support through pivotal life transitions like adoption, we’re here. 

Schedule an appointment today and let us be in your corner in any life transition.