A Word from Melinda Lis, Vice President-Academy for Family Support and Preservation, Spaulding for Children
As we celebrate adoption during the month of November, we must remember that adoption is a lifelong journey that requires States, territories, and Tribal Nations to offer on-going comprehensive post-permanency services.
Adoption can be a wonderful permanency option for children who are not able to return home to their parents of origin, but adoption finalization is not the end of the road. It marks an important milestone in one unique life’s journey.
Children who have been in the child welfare system have experienced trauma and loss, which can affect their ability to regulate emotions, handle conflict, and form healthy relationships.
Trauma and loss—and the resulting difficulties—do not go away with adoption finalization. Research has shown that 20% to 30% of adoptive families face significant challenges—challenges that can intensify as children reach adolescence.
During Adoption Month, we should celebrate adoption while also acknowledging that ongoing, comprehensive, adoption-competent, post-permanency services are critical to ensuring the well-being of all children and families touched by adoption.
We hope you will join the Post-Adoption Center this month in celebrating adoption. Throughout the month we will be highlighting voices from those most impacted by adoption, sharing their perspectives as to why post-permanency services are important. We look forward to partnering with States, territories, and Tribal Nations across the country as they seek to enhance the post-permanency services they provide.
