[cynthia900]

Hi,

I'm in the final stages of starting adoption #3 and would really appreciate the thoughts of those of you who have transracial families.

I have two wonderful adopted daughters aged 3 and 5. We are all caucasian. When I adopted my first daughter, I applied to do a transracial (probably AA, maybe biracial) adoption of a toddler, but instead received a caucasian newborn. Before embarking on that path I read about it, took a transracial parenting class, talked to others who had done it and am perfectly comfortable with the concept and how it would work for my family (not saying I am an expert or ready for the realities...just somewwhat know what I would be getting into). My second adoption was independent and I chose to parent a caucasian newborn, thinking that it would be easier on the children if they looked similar since they are already different than most families (I am a single mom). I discussed my choices with an adoption social worker recently and she said that transracial adoption is less successful when the child is the only one of the family who is a different race (not that it can't be successful..but is harder on the child). So I am again, questioning whether this is a food choice for my family. If only I had realized that I would want, and be able to handle, a third child when I did the second, but then I wouldn't have my amazing spitfire of a daughter so.... should I seriously consider transracial adoption for my third (and surely final) child? (PS The other pieces - neighborhood, role models, family acceptance etc are all okay)

I really appreciate the input of those who have been there done that....

Cynthia