Speaking of Adoption : Related Articles

Is a Support Group for You?
by Mary Grossnickle

If you have adopted a child, chances are there have been times when you thought, “I wonder how other adoptive parents handle this!”

If you’ve ever wished you could talk to other adoptive parents, a support group could be the answer. An adoptive family support group is a network of parents who come together to share ideas, experiences and concerns related to their children. It’s a non-threatening place where families can talk about the joys and frustrations that come with being an adoptive parent.

Many groups are designed to respond to the needs of the parents who are part of the group. Topics might include issues such as school assignments that are troublesome for adopted children, dealing with attention deficit disorder, where to find adoption-related resources, how to incorporate your child’s culture into your family, etc.

The group may also sponsor activities for the whole family, so that families can get to know other families and children can meet other children who have been adopted. A child who was adopted needs to know that he or she is not "the only one" who's adopted, a misconception expressed by many children.

If special children's programs are sponsored by the support group, children can share their feelings and concerns about being adopted, about their birth parents, and about their cultural heritage.

Some parent support groups focus on changing legislation.

Online support groups solve a number of scheduling problems. No need to set aside a night every month for a meeting, no need to worry about child care or kids getting to bed on time if you take them to the support group meeting with you. You know that you can shop in your pajamas, email your best friend in the middle of the night and do research on ADHD without going to the library. And you can get support from other adoptive parents without leaving home by joining an online support group.

Some families find that support groups are helpful at certain times and not so necessary at other times. By continuing to belong to a support group, even if you're not in crisis at the moment, you're building a network of families who can be there for you when you need them. Just as importantly, you'll be there to offer information and support, because only another adoptive parent can really understand the joys and challenges that come with being an adoptive family.