How Do You Prepare To Parent A Child Adopted From China?
Americans have adopted more than 50,000 children from China since the Chinese government opened it’s borders to international adoption. While adopting a child is an amazing experience, it requires preparation and planning. Children adopted from China have often spent the first months of their lives in orphanages and require specific care to facilitate attachment. Preparation for parenting is the first step towards establishing a secure bond between you and your child. Take parenting courses offered by your agency. If there are no classes, ask your social worker where you can take classes. Other local agencies may offer parenting classes. Join the local chapter of Families With Children from China. Attend dinners, playgroups and meetings for waiting parents. Talk to other parents about their experiences adopting from China. Ask parents to be honest about their parenting experiences. Select a pediatrician who specializes in international adoption and has a record of treating children ado