Conclusion

The Evan B. Donaldson Adoption Institute conducted a benchmark survey in 1997 examining public attitudes toward adoption. The Institute found that 6 in 10 Americans have had personal experiences with adoption, meaning they, a family member, or a close friend was adopted, had adopted a child, or had placed a child for adoption. As the number of families created by adoption continues to increase and change the view of the "traditional" family, explanations to children, family and friends become more complex and even more significant.

Resources for adoptive families

Adoptive parent groups, national organizations, community, faith-based, and school-based programs can all be helpful resources to families created by adoption. These organizations can provide a range of support - from parenting tips, educational resources, diversity and cultural awareness programs, to family recreational activities, neighborhood networks, and respite care.

The National Adoption Information Clearinghouse distributes the National Adoption Directory, which among listings of public and private adoption agencies, State and local child welfare agencies, and legal resources, are State by State listings for adoptive parent and search support groups. The directory is revised annually and updated throughout the year as new resources or changes are found. If you have information that you would like included, please contact the Clearinghouse. The directory is available online at: http://naic.acf.hhs.gov/database/index.cfm#nad

Some of the helpful products disseminated by the National Adoption Information Clearinghouse are:

Factsheets

"Creating a Family Through Birth and Adoption"
"Transracial and Transcultural Adoption"
"The Value of Adoptive Parent Support Groups"
"Adoption and School Issues"
"Adoption and the Stages of Development"
"After Adoption: The Need for Services"
"Parenting the Adopted Adolescent"
Resource listings

Adoption Reading List

Reading lists for Preschoolers, Elementary, Junior High and Senior High Students
Famous Adopted and Adoptive People
Summer Culture Camps and Adoption Camps for Kids and Families
Resources for Families and Children with Disabilities
Tips on Selecting an Adoption Therapist

Annotated Bibliographies

Bibliographies for Preschoolers, Elementary, Junior High and Senior High Students, Attachment Disorder, Search and Reunion Issues

Credits: Child Welfare Information Gateway (http://www.childwelfare.gov)