Each should know the foster care and adoption issues that are similar and different. This provides enormous stability for both the child and the family. Foster families that decide to adopt generally know more about a child's background from the beginning than foster families who choose not to. Families that adopt also have more contact with the agency and greater caseworker involvement. These families feel comfortable talking with their worker about difficult issues and trust that the worker has fully disclosed pertinent information about the child's history.
Foster parents adopt when they have a strong attachment to the child.
They are more likely to develop an attachment to a child who is similar to them and whose needs they can meet. Parents' preferences about the type of child that best suits them are important if a foster care placement may result in adoption. Older children are more likely to be adopted by their foster parents if visits have occurred. The extra preparation increases the development of a positive attachment, and can have long-lasting positive effects for all concerned.