Resources for Adoptive Parents
Author: Heather Slee
Adoption is a complicated, emotional experience, and that's why there are many resources available for adoptive parents. Books, websites, newsletters, and support groups are out there so that you can get the information and support you need in order to be the best parent you can be while still taking care of your own emotional needs.
There are hundreds of books on adoption-novels, memoirs, manuals, children's books, and more. Here are just a few books that have received exceptionally high ratings from parents: Attaching in Adoption: Practical Tools for Today's Parents by Deborah D. Gray, Raising Adopted Children: Practical Reassuring Advice for Every Adoptive Parent by Lois Rushai Melina, LifeBooks: Creating a Treasure for the Adopted Child by Beth O'Malley, Toddler Adoption: The Weaver's Craft by Mary Hopkins-Best, and Let's Talk About It: Adoption by Fred Rogers (yes, Mr. Rogers! This one is for ages 4-8).
There are also a good number of websites out there. Some have general information, while some are very specific, for example there are websites dedicated to adoption from particular countries. The following websites are more general, but after researching with them, I've found they are chuck full of information and also links to even more information. They are: www.adopting.org, www.adoptivefamilies.com, www.adopt.org, http://adoption.state.gov, and www.adoptionsupport.org.
Nearly all of these websites have e-newsletters you can also sign up for. To find other newsletters that are full of personal stories, helpful tips, and other articles, check with your adoption agency; they may have one specifically for their clients.
Support groups are a fantastic way for adoptive parents to connect and share experiences. Sometimes your challenges are easier to deal with when you know there are other people in the same boat. To find support groups near you, check in the newspapers, local churches, and especially your adoption agency. You can also find chat rooms and forums on some of the websites listed above, which can also be nice for sharing.
You don't have to do this journey alone; there are many resources out there for you. You have the power to make your experience positive and informative. Take advantage; it will benefit your whole family in the long run!
