5 Must-Have Resources for Adoptive Families
The Honestly Adoption Podcast- We Belong Together
- Blockbuster Boosters
- Heritage Camps
- North American Council on Adoptable Children Conference
Adoption is one of the greatest gifts that a person can give to their adopted child, to their family, and to their community. Children who remain in the foster system and never become adopted are at a greater risk for physical and mental health problems, as well as academic struggles. Adoptive families face their own sets of alternative challenges, but with the help of resources such as these five, they can focus on their enormous benefits.
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1. The Honestly Adoption Podcast
In today’s technological era, podcasts provide great resources for any number of issues. They are like portable support groups you can take on the go, making the most of long commutes and waiting rooms. Adoptive families who enjoy podcasts should tune into The Honestly Adoption Podcast. Hosts Mike and Kristin Berry offer what they have both lovingly and truthfully termed, “Confessions of an Adoptive Parent,” to guide fellow adoptive parents through the challenges and joys of their unique lifestyle.
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2. We Belong Together
Podcasts are great for parents, but adopted kids need resources, too! It is important for adopted children to know that their family may look different than other families on the outside, but that they belong to a family all the same, and they deserve all the same love and safety. Children’s author Todd Parr has written We Belong Together, a story about adopted families designed to help kids understand their family and its value.
3. Blockbuster Boosters
Often, one of the most comforting and validating experiences is to see one’s own situation reflected in popular media. The following feature-length films all include adoption as part of their main plots. Films for the whole family include Free Willy, Anne of Green Gables, Annie, and Angels in the Outfield.. Films for older kids and parents include, I Am Sam, The Truman Show, and Instant Family. Curl up with a bowl of popcorn and have a heartfelt movie night with your family.
4. Heritage Camps
Interacting with other adoptive families is one of the most valuable and enjoyable tools. Heritage Camps provides a wide variety of fun and supportive getaways for adoptive kids and families to connect with people like them and learn just how incredible their journey can be. They also offer a wide variety of exercises that families can take back to their homes for facing challenges throughout the year.
5. North American Council on Adoptable Children
Just like all parents, adoptive parents also need to get away on their own to relax, rejuvenate, and refuel their toolboxes! The annual North American Council on Adoptable Children Conference offers all of these benefits. Form seminars led by leading professionals in the adoption field, to experiential workshops, to social networking opportunities, parents and professionals alike enjoy connecting at these events and returning home ready to make the most out of the coming year.
Adoption is a brave and compassionate choice for starting and building a family. It is important for adoptive families to seek resources for facing their unique set of challenges and unlocking their unique set of gifts. From podcasts and books on the go, to movie nights at home, to camps and conferences in exciting places, these five resources offer support and community to all types of adoptive families.