Special Needs Adoption FAQs

 

What does “Special Needs” mean?
Our adoption program is titled “Special Needs” because these children have experienced some level of neglect or abuse in their past. Therefore, they have a high risk of having emotional, physical, developmental and/or behavioral disabilities. These waiting children are under state guardianship because the court has terminated their birth parents’ rights. Children are currently living in foster homes, group homes or treatment facilities.  Most of the children are living with foster families but some also live in group facilities.

What should adoptive parents know about the children they adopt?
Adoptive parents will gather all information available to them including the child’s social and medical history. They will also learn the history of the child’s birth family. It is important to learn this information ahead of time in order to access resources for your child. It will be important to learn more about the child’s specific needs and how your family can meet these needs.

Can I talk to an adoptive family who has adopted a special needs child?
Yes. Networking with adoptive families can be very helpful as you begin this process and throughout your journey. You can connect with parents who have children with the same needs and learn about specific resources in your area. Please contact us for information about talking to other adoptive families.

What special qualities do adoptive parents need when adopting a special needs child?
Parenting a child with special needs requires a great deal from the adoptive parent(s). It is essential for adoptive parents to embrace the concept of claiming your adopted child.  This implies the public and private decision to raise the child no matter what.  It is not only love; it is security, stability and a future together.  It is the critical component that keeps families together when they struggle, are embarrassed, hurt or feel at a loss.  Teaching a child to love, to trust, to not surrender to their limitations requires patience, endurance, a sense of humor and a profound belief that all kids need a family.
                                 -Deena McMahon,  LICSW, MSW – Therapist & Trainer

How will Lutheran Social Service (LSS) help adoptive families in this process?
Your LSS worker will complete your home study and assist in matching your family with a child. Once the child moves into your home, your LSS worker will supervise the placement by visiting your home monthly. As a team, you and your worker will find resources to assist your child in areas of need. Once your adoption is finalized, LSS continues to support your new family by providing support, resources, and referrals to additional services.

What resources are available to my family through our Special Needs adoption?
There are several resources for adoptive families in the state of Minnesota.

Minnesota Adoption Support and Preservation (MNASAP) is a collaboration between the Minnesota Adoption Resource Network (MARN) and the North American Council on Adoptable Children (NACAC). MNASAP offers a variety of services such as newsletters, fact sheets on adoption related topics, and training. In addition, MNASAP has a staff of parent liaisons who are adoptive parents located throughout Minnesota. Parent liaisons are available by phone to identify local resources, provide emotional support and help adoptive parents advocate for their children’s needs. MNASAP also facilitates parent support groups all around the state where adoptive parents come together to share experiences and resources.
For a list of resources, click here: Link to SN resources page
                                -Ginny Blade, Parent Network Coordinator at NACAC