If you are interested in adoption, but uncertain of how to proceed, the following is a general overview of the requirements involved for the state of Kansas. Fortunately, there are several options available. The first step of the process for an adoptive parent is to decide the type of adoption you are seeking, for example, an infant, toddler, or older child. Another question to ask yourself is if you want to adopt a child from the United States or abroad. Coming to a decision on the type of adoption you want to pursue will determine how you move forward. The following guidelines for the state of Kansas will help answer some of your initial questions:
Who May Adopt. Kansas law requires that you must be at least 18 years old to be an adoptive parent. The state does not have an upper age limit. However, age requirements may vary depending on the type of adoption you seek. You must also clear a criminal background check, and be able to show you can financially support a child. Additionally, if married, both you and your spouse must agree with the adoption.
Infant Adoption. If you are seeking to adopt an infant domestically, you can either contact a licensed adoption agency or an adoption attorney that has experience with adoptions in Kansas. When handling each adoption case, the adoption agency as well as an attorney, are obligated to look out for the best interest of both the adoptive parent and child.
International Adoption. When seeking international adoption, you must initially research and decide which country you are interested in adopting from. Every country has its own laws, regulations and protocol for adoption. Finding a Kansas adoption agency or experienced adoption attorney that knows the laws of that specific country is crucial to executing a successful adoption. The Kansas Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services can provide reliable agencies and attorneys for international adoption throughout the state of Kansas.
Older Child or Special Needs Adoption. Adoption of an older child or one that involves special needs is facilitated through Kansas social services. Generally, these children are currently in foster care. It is important to clarify that special needs adoption does indicate that the child has mental or physical disabilities or impairment. Rather, it’s suggestive of the fact that a child may be older, part of a sibling group required to stay together, or from a minority. A prospective parent for this category of adoption will be required to attend a 30-hour class conducted by Partnering for Safety and Permanency Model Approach to Partnerships in Parenting (PS-MAPP). The class is intended to help adoptive parents identify and address issues that children in foster care have faced.
Home Study. A home study is a required as part of the adoption process in Kansas no matter the type of adoption you choose to pursue. Essentially, a home study is a like an investigation. Prospective adoptive parents will be subjected to a background check, verifying financial status, fingerprinting, lengthy and detailed personal discussions about your current marriage or divorce (if applicable), family relations, opinions on parenting styles and approach, as well as determining whether your home meets the appropriate size and safety regulations.
Adoption Registry. Kansas imposes a very liberal adoption registry policy. The state permits the Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services (SRS) to contact both adopted adults and adoptive parents for any reason, even for a minor health or medical inquiry. Also, at the request of an adopted adult, Kansas policy allows SRS to contact birth parents.