The Continuing Journey of Children and Families: A Reference Guide for Maryland Families Parenting by Adoption or Guardianship

This guide is a family‑centered resource designed to support Maryland adoptive and guardianship families across the lifespan of their parenting journey. It explores core themes common to families formed through adoption and guardianship—including the impact of trauma, developmental transitions, identity, and family dynamics—and highlights challenges that often emerge at predictable stages. The resource offers practical guidance, reassurance, and strategies to help parents understand their children’s behaviors, support their own well‑being, and seek appropriate supports, with attention to the unique experiences of kinship, transracial, and transcultural families.