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The Value of Adoptive Parent Groups
The Value of Adoptive
Parent Groups
Parent Groups
By National Adoption Information Clearinghouse
Adoptive parent groups usually engage in social, educational and support activities. The types of activities undertaken in each category are listed below.
- Social activities: Parties, including those focusing on the culture and traditions of the children adopted from other countries
- Potluck suppers
- Discussion groups for older children
- Holiday celebrations
- Night on the town just for parents
- Educational activities
Production of newsletters about adoption issues and newly adopted children of members- Preparation for parenting through special training
- Referrals to newsletters, books and other resource materials
- Referrals to appropriate agency and community resources
- Providing up-to-date information on children available for adoption
- Participation in agency staff training and development
- Convening public information meetings to discuss current adoption issues
- Educating legislative groups and government sources about child welfare issues
- Information on the foreign culture of the children adopted internationally
- Support activities: Postplacement support through a "buddy system," "listening ear," telephone counseling, crisis intervention and assistance
- "While you wait" meetings for adoptive applicants
- Special groups for special circumstances: Single parents, parents of teenagers, parents of disabled children, parents who have adopted transracially or divorced parents
Where to Find a Group