How to Adopt

How do I get started?

Read the Frequently Asked Questions  Public Adoption or Private Adoption  International Adoption  Getting your documents and PRIDE Training    What happens now?  More Questions?  Attend our How to Adopt Seminar or send us an e-mail at info@adoption.on.ca International Adoption Chart - updated April 2010 links to Government of Ontario lists of Private Adoption Professionals: Private Adoption professionals to complete adoption homestudies. Private Adoption Licenced agencies Private Adoption Licensees International Adoption Licenced Agencies

Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs

What is adoption and is it right for me?

Families interested in adoption need to learn about the public (CAS), private and international adoption process in Ontario.

What kinds of people adopt?

Adoptive families come in all shapes and sizes - single parents, couples, families with children ...Children need loving, safe and nurturing families who are committed to helping them grow and develop.  Understanding the adoption process requirements will help you understand that you don't fit into a certain profile to be an adoptive parent.

What kinds of children are available for adoption?

Some children are placed at birth by their birth families through a private or CAS adoption.  Some children are living in CAS foster homes and are legally free for adoption.  Some children are living in foster homes or orphanages in foreign countries. Some children will have medical or emotional challenges that the adoptive family will need to deal with.  Education and networking will help a family understand these children to make decisions about the child who will fit best in their family.

How much does it cost?

Adoption through Children's Aid Society is covered by public funds.  Private and international adoption fees are covered by the adoptive family.  Understanding the costs is an important part of learning about adoption.  Fees will vary with services required and activities involved in the adoption process.

Will it take a long time?

The length of time will vary greatly and is hard to predict.  A homestudy and PRIDE training process will take from 6 months to 1 year.  The matching process is not predictable.

How do I get started?

Here is an introductory guide to adoption in Ontario.  View guide.

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Public or Private Adoption
Families in Ontario have the option of public (CAS) adoption or adoption through a private adoption process.
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International Adoption
Ontario supports adoption from several international countries.  International adoptions occur through the private adoption system.
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Getting your training, interviews and documents underway
The adoption Homestudy and PRIDE Training process are required for any one who plans to Adopt in Ontario
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What happens now?
As you embark on the journey of adoption your path will evolve as it is supposed to. It is important for you to learn as much as possible about adoption and make decisions that are right for you and your family. The Adoption Council of Ontario is here to help and support you through your journey. Keep in touch with us through our website - visit us often and make use of our library, newsletters, phone line and educational events.  Our services>>
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