Adopting, Page 2

Features

Successful Parenting Traits

All parenting is challenging. Adoptive parenting, however, adds additional challenges. I'm an adoptive parent, founder of a support group, writer, therapeutic tutor, and manager of a ... [more]

The Adjustment Period with a Dog (Similar to Adopting an Older Child)

Hannah found a dog a couple months ago. Interestingly, we'd been having discussions about possibly getting a dog. We were good citizens: put found dog notices up, called local vets, bought ... [more]

Things Everyone Told Me

As I traveled the first part of my adoption journey, everyone (friends, family, neighbors, and store clerks) had things to share with me. Some were said with a smile, some in a whisper... [more]

Things No One Told Me

Before I adopted my daughter, Hannah, age 6 at the time, I read lots of books. I talked to parents. I babysat. I researched. I observed. I was nervous about becoming a first-time parent and... [more]

Two Stories - Plus One

Two adoption stories have stayed with me… One was a family that contacted me after reading an article of mine in the local paper about older child adoption. They called and said th... [more]

What to Expect When You Adopt an Older Child

While all older adopted children are different, there are a few things you might anticipate if you're adopting an older child. The following summary examples are meant to be reference point... [more]

What You Want and Don't Want to Hear from Adoption Agencies

Adopting older children can be very challenging, albeit with many rewards. Prospective parents should educate themselves on all of the potential issues including grief and loss, the impact ... [more]

Who and What to Tell

As parents and parents to-be of older adopted children, we will continually be faced with decisions as to who and what to tell about our child's background. Are they adopted? When wer... [more]