[brebecca]

We're in the midst of our home study for a fost/adoption, and trying to figure out what we are and aren't willing to take on. We're both pretty research-oriented folks, but have no idea really where to begin to find out what potential issues children will be facing, and what the likely short- and long-term ramifications of each of those issues will be.

Are there books or articles out there that are recent and relevant to this question?

Thanks!

[momraine]

This is the International Special needs board and it's not very active. I suggest you visit the Special needs area and also the foster care and adoption sections. Check out those sections, scroll back and read about people's stories and that may help you decide what you can handle. Also under special needs, read up on the attachment posts.
Good luck!

[lucyjoy]

I'd start by reading Adopting the Hurt Child by Greg Keck and Regina Kupecky.

Read the special needs and attachment sections on this forum.

[NeedsCoffee]

We weren't sure what we could handle either, and ended up with one who was labeled RAD, PTS, and developmentally delayed; twins who have global delays, hearing loss, corrected vision, and one with cerebral palsy. NEVER would have thought we could "do" all of this, but we are. Basically, there is no amount of reading or researching that can prepare for that phone call that says, "We think you're the perfect family for this child. Will you take him?"

[Pencil-HB]

As to my own working experience, the younger the kid is, the less consideration it would bother you. Because while he or she is young, the only thing you'll worry about is the healthy problem. But while gets older, you have to put his or her life experience, grown personality into consideration to see if you both fit.

Helen

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