How to adopt from foster care? What is the process, what is required, and how to begin? In this course, we talk with Kim Phagan-Hansel, managing editor of "The Chronicle of Social Change" and the editor of "Fostering Families Today." Kim Phagan-Hansel is also the editor of two books, The Foster Parenting Toolbox and The Kinship Parenting Toolbox.  

This course covers the following topics:

  • What are the different ways to adopt from foster care? 
  •  How to find children currently available for adoption? AdoptUSKids, State Heart Galleries, Wendy’s Wonderful Kids
  •  What are the basic differences between adopting and fostering in foster care?
  •  Who can adopt from foster care?
  •  Home study requirements
  •  Education requirements
  •  Can singles adopt?
  •  Criminal background?
  •  Do you have to own your own home?
  •  How closely are your family finances scrutinized?
  •  How much does it cost?
  •  What are the usual costs?
  •  How does the Adoption Tax Credit apply to adoptions from foster care?
  •  What is the process for someone wanting to adopt from foster care?
  •  How much education or training is required?
  •  Do you have to use the state agency or can you use a private agency? What is the difference between the two?
  •  What types of kids are available for adoption from foster care? Gender, race, sibling group?
  •  Can you adopt a child from foster care across state lines?
  •  What are the special needs that these children might have? Trauma, prenatal exposure, ADHD, etc.
  •  What should prospective parents think about when considering different ages of children to adopt?
  •  What should prospective parents think about when considering a sibling group for adoption?
  •  Is an adoption subsidy usually available?
  •  What can this subsidy be used for?
  •  Is there negotiation for this subsidy?
  •  What happens if we think the child might have problems in the future do to things, such as prenatal exposure, but is not currently showing any issues due to age?
  •  Is it possible to adopt a very young child or baby from foster care?
  •  How to transition a child into your home for adoption (if you aren't the foster parent) in the most child-centric way?
  •  Post adoption contact with birth parents, siblings, or birth grandparents.


*This course includes a 1-hour conversational audio lesson, a 10-question quiz, and a certificate of completion with the successful completion of the quiz at 80%. 

Your course will remain active for 180 days from purchase date.

This course aligns with the following regulatory requirements.

Illinois Licensing Standard §401.520

*Important Information for agencies on Illinois Adoption Requirements.