November is Adoption and Permanency Education Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and reflecting on the permanency children and youth find through kinship connections, legal custody, and adoption.
Why Adoption Matters
When children and youth are given the opportunity to be a part of a supportive family, it positively impacts their immediate well-being, as well as builds a solid foundation for their future and social development.
Our Adoption and Permanency team works diligently to recruit, locate, and support a diverse adoptive community to meet the individual needs and diverse identities of the children and youth available for adoption.
This month, our focus is on educating the community about the various pathways to adoption and permanency, addressing common misconceptions, and advising prospective adoptive parents.
Advice for Parents/Prospective Adoptive Parents
Adopting a child is a significant and life-changing decision, and it is normal for parents to feel both excited and apprehensive. The following advice have been carefully crafted for adoptive parents and prospective adoptive applicants by a young adult who is a former adoptee:
- Prioritize Ongoing Learning: Keep educating yourself about adoption and child psychology, as each developmental stage may bring new questions or emotional challenges.
- Understand your motivation and prepare emotionally: Conduct a deep reflection on why you want to adopt and make sure your motivations are clear and well thought out.
- Research the adoption Process: Familiarize yourself with different types of adoption and permanency options and what each entail.
- Embrace cultural sensitivity and identity: Commit to learning and honouring the background of the child if you are adopting a child from a different race, culture, or country.
- Seek support and build a network: Find support groups for adoptive parents and seek resources specifically for adoptive families.
- Prepare for the transition period: Be patient and open to different bonding processes, which can vary depending on your child’s age, background, and personality.
- Open Communication: Honesty is key as children grow and may want to know more about their origins. Be open, age-appropriate, and understanding in discussing adoption with them. Never keep the adoption a secret.
Celebrating Families This Month
This Adoption and Permanency Education Month, we celebrate the strength, love, and resilience of all families formed through adoption and permanency.
For those who wish to learn more, we invite you to join us in our mission of building safe and brighter futures for children, youth, and families in York Region.
Reach out, ask questions, and take steps to understand adoption and permanency better.
