[jennieliz]

Good morning,

My name is Jennifer and I an new to the group. My question is regarding experiences people have had adopting teens, adapting to family life, school, language issues, etc.

If anyone has any insight or experience I would love to here from you.

Have a great day!!

Jennieliz

[lucyjoy]

My teens were us teens, so we didn't have language issues. One of the things you'll need to prepare for is the possibility of major issues with trust. I remember myself being a teen and all the normal teen fears, add to that a new country where you can't communicate, newpeople wanting to be your family, new schools, change in culture, it all will be very overwhelming.

One suggestion I would make is to not go too overbaord with "stuff". Teens today have a lot, but be sure to consider what this child may have had in her previous environment. Stuff can be added later, a little at a time. Maybe start with a few typical American outfits, costume pretty Jewelry, but not too much, Tame down room decorations. As your child becaomes more use to his/her environment, you can let them help select a few more things.

Also, depending on their background, they may be afraid to sleep, not knowing what might happen to them at night. My kids had doorknow alarms so they would know if someone entered their room. They slept much better(and so di I because I would know if they got up or needed something).

Spend time at home in a normal routine and don't try to show them everything at once. This helps with the culture shock, but also gives them a more realistic idea of what family life is like.

I hope these suggestions help some.

[jennieliz]

Thank you so much for your reply. We have thought of some of these things , especially all of the "stuff" kids have today. My bio girls are 13 and 14 and like to shop till they drop!!!

I did not think of the night time issue, but it makes good sense. Thanks for the insight.

Jennieliz

[jennieliz]

Hello again- just thought of another question.

Did anyone take there other children with them when that went overseas to adopt? We have 2 teenage bio daughters and want to adopt a young lady from Ukraine.

Jennieliz