Adopt a Child in the Dallas, Forth Worth, Denton & Surrounding Counties

Explore the Adoption Process & Agency Support

Kids First searches for children whose cases are likely moving towards adoption. These children have been neglected or abused and are unable to return home to their biological families. We are a licensed contract provider with the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (TDFPS), supporting each step of the way.

Adoption & Foster-to-Adopt with Kids First

Every child deserves a forever home — a place where they are loved, supported, and encouraged to grow. At Kids First, we help safe, caring adults become adoptive and foster-to-adopt parents to children in need across Texas.

What is Adoption & Foster-to-Adopt?

When children are removed from unsafe environments, the State works closely with their biological families to help restore and reunite them. But when those efforts aren’t successful and parental rights are legally terminated, children need adoptive families who are ready to commit to them for life.

Adoption is a legal process that transfers full parental rights to adoptive parents — creating permanent, stable families for children who cannot return home.

Foster-to-adopt is a pathway where families become licensed foster parents first, with the goal of adopting a child whose case may lead to permanent placement. This approach helps children experience continuity and bonding while waiting for their adoption to be finalized.

Why Adopt?

In 2022, over 10,000 children in Texas were waiting to be adopted, but only 4,361 were placed with permanent families.

Behind each number is a child who longs for a home — not just for now, but forever. Adoption gives these children safety, stability, and the love of a committed family.

Who Can Adopt?

Adoptive parents come in all shapes and sizes. If you’re a responsible adult with a stable home and a desire to make a lifelong impact, you may be the perfect fit.

Basic Requirements:

1. Responsible, healthy adult (21+ years old)

2. Pass background checks, home study, and health/fire inspections

3. Complete 33 hours of training (provided by Kids First)

4. Married or single (must not be separated; if divorced, must be for 6+ months)

5. Stable income

6. Provide all necessary documents

Steps to Becoming an Adoptive or Foster-to-Adopt Family

Kids First recommends becoming licensed as a Foster-to-Adopt family to expand placement opportunities and allow for greater flexibility.

Your Path to Adoption:

1. Attend an Orientation

2. Complete an Application

3. Pass Central Registry, Criminal, and FBI Background Checks

4. Complete 33 Hours of Training with Kids First

5. Pass Fire and Health Home Inspections

6. Submit Required Documentation

7. Complete a Home Study

We walk with you through every step — offering guidance, encouragement, and personalized support.

FAQs: Understanding Foster Care & Adoption

What’s the difference between foster care and adoption?

Foster care is temporary — children remain legal dependents of the state, and the focus is often on reunification with birth families. Adoption is permanent — full parental rights are transferred to you, and the child becomes a legal member of your family.

What is foster-to-adopt?

Foster-to-adopt families begin as foster parents for a child whose case may lead to adoption. If parental rights are terminated, these families are first in line to adopt, offering children continuity and a smoother transition into a permanent home.

Does it cost anything to adopt through foster care?

Foster care comes with monthly reimbursements to help cover the child’s expenses. However, these financial supports do not apply to straight (matched) adoptions. Your coordinator will walk you through the financial structure during orientation.

Why is special training required?

Children in foster care often carry trauma, grief, and big emotions. The training we provide through the NTDC program prepares you to support them well — building trust, addressing tough questions, and guiding them with love and empathy.

How long does the adoption process take?

Licensing and training typically take 2–3 months or more depending on your schedule and responsiveness. Placement time can vary based on your flexibility — for example, families open to sibling groups, teens, or children with special needs may be matched more quickly.

What About Kinship Adoption?

If you’re already caring for a child through the State’s Kinship Department, we’re here to help. Kids First licenses kinship families — guiding you through the process and ensuring your home meets all state requirements.

Ready to Begin Your Adoption Journey?

Whether you’re ready to get started or simply want to learn more, Kids First is here to walk with you. Our team will guide you with compassion, clarity, and care — because every child deserves a forever family.

👉 Contact us today to take the first step.