Adoption vs. Fostering 

November is National Adoption Month! We know some people are curious about the difference between adoption and fostering. If you’re one of those people, look no further! Here are four key differences to help you decide which one is right for you. 

1. Legal Relationship 

Adoption results in a permanent legal relationship between the child and the adoptive family, whereas fostering is a temporary arrangement lasting from a few days to several years. 

2. Parental Rights 

When a child is adopted, the birth parents’ legal rights are terminated. In contrast, when a child is fostered, the birth parents retain their legal rights, and the foster parents are responsible for providing care and support. 

3. Support and Resources 

Adoptive families may be eligible for financial and other resources to support the child’s needs such as healthcare and education. Foster families receive support and resources, but these are generally more temporary and may focus more on meeting the child’s immediate needs. 

4. Purpose 

Adoption is typically intended to provide a permanent, stable family for a child. Fostering is often designed to provide temporary care and support until the child can return to their birth family or find a permanent home through adoption or guardianship. 

The choice between adoption and fostering ultimately depends on your unique circumstances and the impact you want to make in a child’s life. November’s National Adoption Month serves as a reminder of the many children in need of loving homes and support. Whether you’re considering adoption or fostering, remember that both options offer invaluable opportunities to make a difference in a child’s life. Check out our partner agencies to help start your journey to becoming an adoptive or foster parent.