[SingleMama2B]

I agree that you truly need to read alot about adopting older children, either in the states or from another country. Adopting at any age in general is NOT for everyone, but if it is truly what your family wants, it can be the best experience of your life.

I adopted my daughter from Russia when she was 8.3 years old. I truly believe that if any child, at any age is in an institution, there will be some sorta of issues. I have gotten to know some families that adopted babies (up to 12 months old), and some of them have issues. Some older children will have deeper issues then others. My daughter has been affected from alcohol, adhd, which has resulted with some learning disabilities. She is blossoming, learning, and the happiest girl I know. She is my sunshine every morning. My niece came home 2 1/2 weeks after my Daughter came home. She is extremely bright, beautiful, growing at an outstanding rate, but suffers from PTSD, Rage, Anxiety, etc. Both my Daughter and Niece are getting the care, love, and help that they need to be well rounded, healthy children and adults.

I am a strong advocate for older child adoptions. Hosting would be a great way for you to meet these wonderful children (no matter what country of origin). This way you are helping a child/ren learn about our culture, family life, etc., and you will get to know them alittle bit, and to see if you would want to pursue an older child adoption.