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Our boys were older, both four yrs old, so you may not be wanting this info. But if your concern is because they are older, this may apply. Our boys were both in a wonderful, private orphanage in Guat City, where they recieved much love and care. They both had no issues that we noticed...other than learning the language. They were speaking only English (not that our goal was for them to lose their Spanish, but they did since we are not bilingual) after two mo. and six mo.

We brought our ten yr old daughter home nearly one yr ago. She came from the same orphanage. There were some initial issues the first few months, nothing big, just annoying. There are things that will and have effected her more than our sons, having lived without the benefit of a family for ten yrs. Even being a ten year old girl can be an issue for anyone! It was very difficult watching her grieve during our pickup trip and a few times during the first few months. Yet it was also very encouraging to know she had feelings for the friends and caregivers she was leaving behind. The other day, as I cut her hair, she got teary. I asked her why and she said she was thinking of her friends. I am sure there will be other "triggers" which remind her of her life in Guatemala and bring sadness and grief over her losses. Mostly, she is very happy being an 11yr old girl, oblivious to the realities of the adult world.

I believe the issue is usually more in how well the child has been able to bond with their caregivers. Ours had consistent caregivers over their years in the orphanage. If a child has the capacity to bond, I believe they can transfer that to their new family. Granted, it takes time to establish and accept new roles, but if you are ready for all that parenting holds for you, things should go well.