Questions about Adopting from the system.

Children in that age range will usually need to have some control over what the name change will be. They are old enough to help decide. Depends on the situation(bio family and removal reasons) and the child if changing a name is best.

You can change the name of YOUR child, yes. But with older children, I don't know how they would feel about it...after all, it's THEIR name.. A child has to be in the adoptive home for a minimum of 6 month, before you can adopt.

Thank you so much for the answers it's something me and DH have discussed and we agree. Here is another question 1- After we adopt are we allowed if the need called for it for us to move from state. Not for any reason in particular just curious as we have land in another state an plan to build a house with stables and other farm stuff.

Once the adoption is finalized then they are your children to do with as you see fit. You can move out of state as needed. The only thing that may be different is if you have an open adoption and there is a need for visitation with bios or former foster parents that sort of thing. In my state you are not permitted to leave before finalization without permission from the county and judge and that's only for special cases (usually military type thing).

Thank you for the info that is good to know. Another question - Can we have 2 girls in one room and 2 boys in another not caring for ages? Say for example a 7 yr old boy and a baby or toddler same for the girl?

After the adoption, you can do bedrooms as you see fit. When getting homestudied for adoption you must follow the rules of your state. Most states allow children of the same sex to share a room regardless of age (as long as nobody is over 18), but some have a maximum age span and say that, for example, a sixteen year old and a newborn may not share because there are too many years between them. But that is dependent on the state, so you'll have to ask during your training sessions.

Once adopted, they are your children and you may follow your parental judgment. As far as name changes go, it is up to you regarding name change. With a 5 and 7 yr old, it would be a good suggestion to allow them some say in the matter. Possibly, provide them a choice of 2 to 5 options in names, or allow them to keep their 1st name as a middle name if they choose to still go by the name. Or maybe keep their name if they still want their name and change the spelling if safety is a concern. My personal experience is that we adopted a 4 year old (was 3 when placed) who chose a completely new name from options we gave him, and after about a month he announces himself loud and proud with his new name everywhere he goes. Most likely, once placed in your home, there will be around 6 months before finalization. Keep checking with your social worker and guardian ad litem regarding timing. Good luck!! :love: