First, we are religious and so was our licensing worker. I believe that you had a SW with her own preferences.

International adoption - I've been that route. Very expensive and long process. You have no idea what you are dealing with mental health wise or genetically. What country is he thinking about? You might not get an infant by time the process is done.

Allegations, well in our county there has been one in the last 12 years (how long our SW has been here) and in that case it was substantiated. However, she said that they basically let the foster parents "retire" versus doing anything else. I am sure that every county is different and I have heard horror stories. I find that I cover myself by documenting everything and letting the SW know about most bruises and bumps.

Ages are all a preference thing. I have had infants and toddlers. The infants are more work but so much easier. It is amazing how neglect and/or abuse can cause so much harm in a young child.

I personally prefer the foster/adopt route because you know the child well by time they get to the adoption phase (if they get there). There are draw backs since you don't know if the child will go home or not.