Letter “C” is next in our Transracial Adoption ABCs.

Certificate of Citizenship- The Certificate of Citizenship is an important document for parents of children who were adopted internationally. This form, which can be found here, proves that the child is indeed a U.S. citizen. It is one of only two documents (the other being a U.S. passport) that can prove citizenship. Birth certificates and adoption decrees do not, even when all of the requirements have been met and the child really is a U.S. Citizen under the Children’s Citizenship Act of 2000. The fee to apply for a COC is $215 for a minor adopted child.


Although it is easy to feel like you are “done” with the paperwork once your child is home, this is a very important step. Some adult adoptees have even faced deportation after getting in trouble with the law, even though they were legally adopted children of U.S. citizens. So make sure that once your child is home, you finalize in your state (if necessary), and then get that Certificate of Citizenship and/or a U.S. passport for your records and for your child’s future.

Children- Children should be what adoption is all about. While adoption does provide children for parents who desire them, and adoption is often the best solution for a mother who is not ready or is unable to parent a child for whatever reason, what really should matter is that adoption finds a safe, permanent and loving home and family for a child that does not have those things.

What is in the best interest of the child should come first and foremost. During the adoption process the adoptive parents, birth parents and others should be treated with dignity and respect, but what is best for the child should be the focus of all involved.

I also think it is important to remember how very many children there are waiting for adoption right this moment. A lot of people will ask me, “Isn’t it hard to adopt?” and I always say that there are SO many kids in need…in the U.S. foster care system and in countries all over the world. No child should have to grow up alone in this world, without love, safety, security, a home, a family and a place to belong.

Choices- For adoptive parents, there are countless choices to be made and questions to be asked. Is adoption right for me? Is transracial adoption right for me? Is international adoption right for me? If so, what country do I want to adopt from? Is domestic adoption right for me? If so, do I want an open adoption? What age child am I open to? Am I open to siblings? Am I open to special needs? What agency should I use?

All of the choices can seem overwhelming, but if you take them one at a time, you will make steady progress towards your child.

My advice (say it with me) is research, research, research, so you can make the right choices for your family.

*Photo from Easy Child Crafts.com