It takes a caring family to consider adopting a special child who is in need of their love and understanding. Many of the children in the U.S. who are waiting to be adopted are in foster care and are considered "Special Needs" cases. These are children who:

Have a physical disability or illness Have an emotional disability due to neglect, frequent moves, etc. Are a member of a minority group At least 6-7 years old Must be adopted with at least one sibling

Any family with an approved homestudy for special needs is eligible to adopt these children. It may be suggested that the family attend therapy sessions with their child, take a pro-active role in their schooling and try to keep in touch with the child's other siblings if applicable. MOST IMPORTANT is to the need for patience and understanding while developing a strong and lasting relationship with your child.

Once you have a completed homestudy, you may proceed with choosing a child. At first glance this may appear to be a simple procedure, but more often it can be a very demanding process. You will be asked a series of specific questions concerning the type of background you will accept in a child. Your attitude concerning questions about physical health issues, mental or emotional problems, learning disabilities, mental retardation or neglected or abusive home situations will be assessed. You can choose a child from a state, regional, or national photolisting or have the child referred to you based on which conditions you comfortable with adopting.

The next step occurs when you have chosen a child, and the involved agency has chosen you as the family for that child. Pre-placement visits are arranged. Depending on physical location, adoption readiness, and degree of the child's disability, these visits will be short or long term.

Finally there is placement. Along with placement there are required visits by your social worker before the adoption is finalized.

Children's Adoption Network assists only families who are residents of PA and NJ.  For residents of other states, please contact your state adoption specialist for assistance.

Children's Adoption Network will be happy to connect you with other families who have adopted special needs children. We can also send you additional adoption information. Please E-Mail us and we will send an informative package.

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