Adopting a Child with Special Needs
Some adoptive parents chose to raise children with special needs, and others find out after the children are home that they will have unexpected challenges. Lack of information can make getting a diagnosis and providing appropriate help difficult, and lack of preparation can put strain on families. Here's where to find help and support.
Top 10 Great Things About Adopting a Child with Special Needs
Adopting a child with special needs can be hard and scary, but there are great things about it, too. This humorous, heartfelt list gives you 10 good reasons to give it a try.
Reading Profiles of Waiting Children
About.com's guide to adoption walks you through some of the terms you might see on waiting children's profiles so you can assess what your family is able to handle.
About.com Adoption
About.com's Adoption site is full of information on adoption, foster care, and many of the issues that will affect parents adopting a child with special needs.
Reece's Rainbow
Reece's Rainbow is an adoption ministry that advocates for waiting children with Down syndrome in international orphanages and lightens the financial burden on families wishing to adopt them.
National Adoption Center
Adoption information and photolistings, specializing particularly in special needs and other hard-to-place children.
Post Adoption Information
Excellent site with articles, research and resources regarding the challenges faced by children adopted from Eastern European orphanages, including articles on sensory integration, failure to thrive, and special education needs.
Medical Issues in Adoption
Lengthy article from KidsHealth addresses both domestic and international adoption.
Eastern European Adoption Coalition
Information on adopting children with special needs from Eastern Europe, including a large number of e-mail lists for personalized information and support.