No two adoptions, just like no two children, are exactly alike. When you adopt a child, who has been abused or neglected, there may be challenges, frustrations and perhaps some confusion and anxiety. It may seem overwhelming but there are resources and people to help. Here are a few.
The National Adoption Center
Through their 42-year history, the National Adoption Center has helped
expand adoption opportunities for children living in foster care throughout
the United States. They provide information and referrals to families
interested in adoption.
Creating a Family: The National Infertility & Adoption Education Nonprofit
Creating a Family is the national adoption and infertility education organization,
and their website includes articles, online education seminars, and interviews
with experts. For example, in their interview with
Dr. Bruce Perry, they address the special needs of kids who have been through traumatic
events, while in a conversation with
Dr. Karyn Purvis, they discuss building connections with abused children and effective
discipline techniques.
Child Trauma Academy (CTA)
CTA is a not-for-profit organization working to improve the lives of high-risk
children through direct service, research and education. CTA’s mission
is to help improve the lives of traumatized and maltreated children.
Child Welfare Information Gateway
Child Welfare Information Gateway is part of the U.S. Department of Health
and Human Services. They have resources and fact sheets for families (such as
Parenting a Child who has Experienced Abuse or Neglect, which examines such topics as “What are the effects of abuse and
neglect?” and “Where can I find support?”).
Children’s Home Society of Virginia
(CHSA)
Based in Richmond, Virginia, CHSA is a non-profit dedicated to helping
children find foster and permanent homes. As part of CHSA’s initiatives,
the charity provides orientations and training for those who are contemplating
parenting an abused or vulnerable child, as well as providing additional
links and resources for other Virginia and national programs.
Call us with questions about adopting a child. We are a family law firm committed to helping all families build a loving home.