Adoption by definition allows another family to permanently take on the responsibility of caring for and raising a child legally. But here are some things to keep in mind for adoption also:

• You must be a resident of Ontario to become an adoptive parent.
• A wide range of Ontarians can become adoptive parents regardless of their ethnic backgrounds and sexual orientation. One of the most crucial criteria for becoming an adoptive parent is having the desire and being capable of providing a safe, loving, and caring home for a child.
• Every province has its own laws in regards to adoption. In other words, rules for adoption is different in every province and territory.
• You can adopt a child in Ontario in various ways. Ministry of Children and Youth Services govern public, private, and international adoptions through legislation. There are two pieces of legislation that apply to adoption in Ontario:

• The Child and Family Services Act

This outlines the rules for adoption of children who reside in Ontario. It also monitors the adoption of children from other provinces or other countries.

• Intercountry Adoption Act, 1998

This act outlines requirements that are mandatory in Ontario for adoptions that will be finalized in different countries.

• Soon-to-be adoptive parents in Ontario—this includes those parents that chose the route of private or international adoptions—are required to:

1. Take part in a SAFE home study to evaluate the aptness of your family and your living condition to provide a child with a permanent home.

Go through a thorough training program—known as PRIDE—to prepare you for the responsibilities of welcoming and raising your adopted child.