Respite Families Needed

Adoption is a huge commitment. There is no denying that. That is why I personally think that it is crucial that adoptive parents have fellow adoptive parents that they can communicate with, talk to, and confide in. It is like a community... a support group.... someone else who truly understands what you are going through.

That is why I am so passionate about helping other families. I need them as much as they need me. Just to know that someone else can relate to what I am going through everyday is so huge for me. To know that I could confide in someone without feeling like I am looking into a blank stare because they have no clue as to what I am saying--- is priceless.

And honestly, because I feel this way, I believe that struggling parents feel comfortable coming to me--- because they feel the same way and often times have no where else to turn. Well with that said--- this is an open invitation to reach out now if you have been hesitant to do so up until now.

With that said, not all families that contact me are looking to end their adoption. Some just really need a non-judgemental ear to talk to. Someone who will just listen and let them know that they are not alone. Often times, they end up asking me if I can provide respite. My gut reaction is to say, "Sure, I'll do it! Bring them right over!" But, I know that at this time, I am really not in a position to "babysit" another child.

Sooooo...... I am reaching out to all of you. Have you ever considered providing respite for an adoptive family who simply needs a break from their child so that they can recollect their thoughts, rejuvenate, and better prepare themselves for when their child comes back home?

This is not a long term commitment.
This is not permanent.
This is not adoption folks.

This is agreeing to help another adoptive family by taking care of their child for a set amount of time. This is an invaluable way to get involved with helping adopted children and families with the goal of keeping the family together.

Each situation will be different. Some children will stay for just a weekend... while others may have up to a one or two month stay in your home. Some children will be a handful.. while others may make you decide that you want to adopt afterall. A child may be as young as three years old... some as old as fifteen.

I can tell you from experience that providing respite can be a win win situation for all involved...... please contact me if you are interested. There are families that are in need of respite that have contacted me.