[Anij34]

What is the typical transition period for a sibling group of 2 children ages 1 and 2. We were had them for weekends for a month, then lost a month due to issues beyond our control and we're currently going to wait until the paperwork goes through allowing them to move in with us. Then we'll resume transition attempt #2.

We feel that transition should not be dragged out. The Foster Mom has a very high level of attachment and anxiety (they are choosing not to adopt). We'll be having a 3rd party involved during the 2nd transition attempt and would like it complete within 1 month. Considering how young they are we feel its bad to make it take any longer.

Advice or suggestions?

Thanks
Mama Bear in Michigan!

[Withay]

First, welcome to the forums. We are glad to have you here. You will find it an excellent source of information as many people here have a wealth of experience.

As for as a transitional period for 1 & 2 year olds. Well, it varies for each child. Some children do better with a very short transition and some need a little longer.

That said, it has been my personal experience when transitioning this age group (and I have transitioned many as I have had over 100 fc, mostly coming as babies and leaving as young toddlers) that starting with a visit or two in the foster home and then moving on to a full day with the adoptive family, then an overnight, then move.

One thing that really helps to make the transition smooth is to have pictures of each family in the others home before the transition so the children get used to their faces. Some telephone calls also help to acclimate the child(ren) with the adoptive family.

Good luck.

[My2Guys]

Hi-
I know that I have read that every state is different in their transition period. We are also in MI and adopted from Iowa. We went and visited them 2 weekends in a row in their f home and then they came and stayed a weekend here. The next weekend, they moved in for good. FM wanted it to drag out a lot longer, she was thinking like 6 months or more. (The kids were 4 and 6 at the time). Their cw said, "No way, these boys are ready!"

Good luck... sorry you lost a month beyond your control. It is so hard to wait, I know!

What part of MI are you in? We don't know anyone here that has adopted, just found people on line from other states. We are in the Flint area.

[Anij34]

We're between Kalamazoo, Battle Creek, Grand Rapids and Lansing. Smack dab in them middle.

We've found out that we might not be able to adopt the boys now, UGH! The adoption agency (theirs) is throwing us all sorts of ridiculous stuff! I really can't believe how much crap we have to go through to adopt via Foster Care! These poor kids have been through enough! They don't need to be put through more!

~Mamabear in Michigan~

[Shelly77]

I don't have much advice for you Mama Bear but I wish you the best.

I hope it works out for you. Can your agency step in and help with the other agencies demands/requirements?

[Anij34]

No, they've done everything they can and they think the other agency has a hidden agenda. Our only shot is to apply for Consent to Adopt to the Superintendent of Michigan Children's Institute (MCI). I'll update when I can. We might not hear for awhile. We really think the other agency is up to no good. They've been very dishonest this whole time.

Mamabear