For many, the relationship with a sibling will be the longest lasting relationship of one’s life.
The relationship between siblings is inherently special. Our society uses the term closer than a brother for a reason. Further, the state recognizes the importance of sibling relationships. In 2008, our government implemented the Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act (source) that mandated the state to make reasonable efforts to keep siblings together in the foster care system.
The adoption of siblings usually happens via one of two scenarios.
1. Scenario One
2. Scenario Two
If you are interested in adopting siblings, consider foster to adopt. Sibling groups tend to be more difficult to place than individual kids in the foster care system. Keeping the siblings together can provide children with a sense of security that many adopted kids don’t get. If you adopt siblings through the from the foster care system, you may be able to get a subsidy to help offset the cost of raising the kids and their medical care. This is due to the difficulty the state faces when placing siblings.
So, if you think siblings might be right for you, I encourage you to look into the foster care system. The need is great.
For questions about the adoption process in Arkansas, contact Adoption Arkansas.