I had a question about the waiting. Why are the children 8-12mos old when they come home? Why does the process take so long?
The South Korean government has been understandably trying to increase domestic adoption and has added some new rules to their adopton policies. 2007 was the first year more children were adopted by Koreans domestically than abroad. One of the new rules included a 5 month period where a child could ONLY be adopted domestically. After 5 months if the child is not adopted domestically, they can be referred internationally (that's us!). The amount of paperwork that needs to be done in both the U.S. and Korea after a child is referred internationally to get travel clearance takes approximately 3-6months. So, that's why he will be anywhere from 8-12 months old, when he comes home.
Adoption is a long process. As you can see from the timeline, there's a lot that needs to be done. There's a lot of filling our of paperwork, getting paperwork approved, backround checks, fingerprinting, physicals, scheduling appointments, etc. There are also a lot of families looking to adopt from Korea. Really, I think having a certain period of waiting is good. There is a lot to be done and a lot to learn. I say that now, but I know we will have some low moments of waiting.
2 comments:
the waiting is hard! but i agree, it's so important. very similar, in that way, to getting ready for a baby when you are pregnant. you can't just snap your fingers! mamas and papas need some time to grow and prepare, even if they don't like it, even if they feel like it's taking too long. i'm thinking of everyone else who is waiting, like us...
Hi guys. I've gotta get me one of these blogs! Ha! First, I love being able to keep up with your adoption news and tid bits this way. Wish I had put something together like this when we were waiting (and waiting, and waiting) for our Embassy appointment to bring Thomas home. The waiting can require a strong stomach, but it's really a great time for you to prepare for your son (or daughter) to come home... in your heart, mind and home. I called it the paper pregnancy... even though the process was longer. But, you're not alone in the waiting. Your family is eagerly anticipating the welcoming of a new baby to our crazy crew. :) Thanks for all the fun information on your blog, and I'll keep checking back. -Mel (and Tom)
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