If you are a single person looking to adopt, you will need to be up for the both the challenge of the adoption process and raising a child. This isn't to say it is impossible, and plenty of single parent adoptions are approved and are a success. Here are four things to remember if you are planning to adopt a child on your own.

1. Adopted Children May Have More Needs

Adopted children may have more of a chance of having learning disabilities and emotional scarring. This can be for a number of reasons, ranging from cultural differences to care provided before adoption. Make sure that you are ready for this possible additional challenge that can come from adoption. Not having another person to help with all of the hard parts of raising an adopted child can be more taxing than you realize.

2. Adopting is Expensive

Adopting on an individual income can be limiting. Find an adoption agency that is transparent on all costs needed up front and down the line. This can help you gain an understanding of what to expect and if you have the resources to continue the process. Make sure that you have enough savings for the initial adoption as well as an emergency fund lined up. If you need to take time off of work without pay, make sure to factor in this expense as well.

3. Single Parent Adoption Options May be Limiting

Adopting on your own might limit your adoption agency options. Certain countries and adoption agencies will not adopt to a single parent. That being said, if you do have the resources to devote more time to raising a child, looking into special needs children and foster care children can open up your adoption prospects. (For more information, contact A Child's Dream). 

4. Take an Honest Look at Your Support Network

If you are looking to adopt to start your family, this might be the wrong way to look at the dynamic. Being single shouldn't mean you don't already have a family of friends and loved ones around you. If you can enlist friends and family to become a part of your new child's life, your child will have a family around them with constant support and love. Adopting a child to fill a void for love missing in your life is the wrong approach.

There is a difference between being discouraged and honestly understanding the hardships involved in single parent adoption. If you have weighed the good with the bad and you still can see yourself making adoption work in your life, you will be more prepared for the process.