Bringing a child into your family can be the most rewarding and joyful event of your life, and permanency can take the form of adoption, guardianship or family reunification when it is a safe option. But your journey doesn’t end at finalization. It can bring a unique set of challenges and questions. This guide offers an overview of resources to help your child and family thrive … together.
Take steps to prepare for your child even before the adoption is finalized:
1. Get informed.
2. Get connected.
3. Get financial support.
From mental health services and specialized educational support, to financial assistance and scholarships, a wide range of post-adoption resources are available for families. For more information, check out these organizations:
Referrals from other parents who have adopted and local support groups are often the most valuable source for reliable information. The services you need will depend on your child and your circumstances. You may also:
Adoption is a significant and emotional event for the child. Experiencing feelings of loss and developmental learning delays are all common. Adjusting to a new environment or culture is often difficult as well.
Understand that it’s normal to have challenges along the way, even years after the adoption. Life events and natural developmental stages can sometimes trigger new issues for a child who is adopted.
Most importantly, adopted children need the permanence of a forever family and your unconditional love.
Guide
Finding Forever Families: A Step-by-Step Guide to Adoption
Guide
Adoption-Friendly Workplace Employer Toolkit
Blog
5 Myths About Foster Care Adoption