Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you
Matthew 7:7
Adoption is a beautiful, life-changing experience filled with joy and challenges. Although completing the adoption process and waiting for what feels like an eternity is difficult and a huge achievement, the journey does not end after placement and bringing your child home. The post adoption stage is a completely new journey that requires ongoing support and resources. These resources provided will guide families through this process and hopefully thrive with their new family member(s).
Support Groups
Adoptive parents often share unique experiences and challenges. Finding a post adoption support group is the most effective way to connect with like-minded families who can offer comfort, support, and encouragement. Support groups provide parents with a sense of community and comfort knowing they are not alone in this complicated journey. Hearing other families’ stories, struggles, and achievements helps to learn different ways to navigate your own experience.
Finding support groups near you
Therapeutic Services
It is important to acknowledge how emotionally complex adoption can be for both the parents and the children. Utilizing post adoption counseling or therapy can be especially helpful in navigating issues such as adjustment, identity, grief, trauma, and attachment. Prioritizing each family member’s emotional and mental well-being will create a solid foundation for a healthy family environment.
List of counselors that are adoptees
Background Information
Understanding your child’s cultural background and history will lead you to be better prepared to meet your child’s unique needs. Information such as the birth parent’s racial, ethnic, cultural, and religious background will help your child to form their identity and understand where they came from. Prenatal history, developmental milestones, physical/behavioral/emotional health, and any other history can help parents understand their child more and prepare for the future. Obtaining this valuable information will be important for your child to develop their unique story.
Respite Care
Caring for an adopted child can be demanding at times, and it is okay to need a break every once in a while. There are respite care services for adoptive families where a trained caregiver can provide some relief to the parents. Respite care is an important post adoption service for families who have adopted children with special needs or have more challenging behaviors which a usual babysitter is not suited for. Matthew 7:7 reminds us to ask for help, and we will receive it.
The post adoption journey may be complex and challenging, but is deeply rewarding and full of joy. Embracing available support in your community and creating strong connections with other adoptive families will enable you to provide the love and care your child deserves. Remember, you are not alone in this process, and God will provide the support you need!
We are here to offer post adoption services and referrals. Contact the Post Adoption Connection Center today!