Do I need to be a certain number of years older than a child I'm adopting?

Question

Specifically I'm going to be adopting in Ohio, but guidelines and laws for anywhere would be helpful, just to get an idea of what issues may arrise. I'm 25 and I'm looking at adopting a girl (possibly two if they're sisters or close friends that don't want to be seperated). My husband is 26. We're likely going to adopt in the next five years. Will this be a problem?

Answer 1

google adoption for the state of ohio. each state has it's different guidelines, so that should at least get you some info...good luck!

Answer 2

According to these rules, you must only be an "adult" and the child a "minor."  (There are some ways to adopt adults as well, but that's not what you're looking for.)

Here's the legislative rules:

http://adoption.about.com/gi/dynamic/off...

Answer 3

In Illinois the age is 10 over.  I am almost 11 years older than my adopted son.  He is now 38 and I have 2 grandchildren.  It was a wonderful experience although rather uncomfortable for him from time to time.  He came to live with us in foster care when I was 22 and his father was 23.  We were able to adopt 2 years later.  Birth certificate read, "Mother's age at birth 10, Occupation Student, Father's age at birth 11, Occupation Student".  As we read the birth certificate and were amused, he put his are around my shoulders and said, "Mom, you were a sleeze!".

Answer 4

Here's a link to info that should help you figure it all out!

http://jfs.ohio.gov/factsheets/FosterCar...

I hope this helps you & congrats on your decision.  Adoption is a huge blessing.

Answer 5

I would think that any age above the age of 18- which is legal or maybe 21.

Answer 6

You're fine.  25 is about as young as you can be to adopt, so if you are just starting the process or planning to adopt in a few years, it will be o.k.  Some birthmothers so prefer a more experienced or mature adoptive parent, but some do not.  

Good luck!

Answer 7

i think as long as your not a minor and you meet all the requirments of the state you should be fine because that could be discrimination agenst age if not, plus, any child needs a home regaurdless of weather they are 2 or 17

Answer 8

some states require you to be 15 years or more older than the child you are adopting. But I am not sure which ones. and some say you must be married for a year or two before adopting. good luck and congrats on a wonderful decision to adopt!!

Answer 9

I live in a southern state and have thought about being a foster parent, but I was able to find the requirments online.  Here, you only have to be 21 to be a foster parent.  Go to google and ask what the laws for adopting in Ohio are?  You should be able to find some information.  I don't think you'll have an age problem.