Adoption Basics

Adoption is a legal process where a family permanently takes on the responsibility of raising a child or youth when they are unable to remain with their birth parents. Adoption is one way that children’s aid societies seek a permanent and stable home. Read more to learn more about how children’s aid societies plan for permanency.

Adoption professionals are looking for families who are right for children and youth. This means families who can affirm important parts of a child’s or youth’s identity, including their race, gender, ability, religion and culture, and meet their needs. This can take time and involves understanding, empathy and effort. Adopted children and families often need post-adoption supports to thrive and succeed.

While a relatively smaller number of children may be adopted at birth in Ontario, it is more likely a child will be over the age of six years and many are over twelve.