September 09, 2014

Adoption News Roundup

Kevin Fletcher-Velsaco is an adoptive parent in a same-sex marriage who started a series of children’s books when he noticed a lack of LGBT-friendly children’s books about open adoption — especially ones that showcase the decision-making process the birth family endures. We think the messaging of his Baby Bear Series is so wonderful, and we love the sweet, gentle activism and awareness being spread about the many types of families adoption brings together. Definitely one to add to the reading list!

Kristen Howerton of Rage Against The Minivan had two important posts this week, ones that affect families of all shapes and sizes. In this post, she discusses orphan prevention, and why it’s an important issue for adoptive parents. Yes we should all be advocating for adoption, and there’s no question how wonderful adoption is, but she argues that adoption should come second and orphan prevention should be the first priority. Thoughts?

Kristen also posted this excellent article, a guest post on her blog, about what it’s like to be a parent of a child with severe food allergies. In this day and age, with food allergies becoming more rampant than ever, this is one for everyone to bookmark. Even if your child doesn’t have allergies it’s good to be prepared in the event that you inadvertently become responsible for a child with severe allergies. Furthermore, it’s a good reminder that we would always do well to be sensitive to others. Erin makes some very poignant points.

Rita Soronen, the President and CEO of the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, wrote a very heartfelt piece about the undocumented children flooding the United States, and our responsibility as Americans to take care of these children and to make sure that they have as many resources as possible to be nurtured and taken care of. A beautiful call to action.

This adoptive mom candidly shares her fears…is being an adoptive mother ever enough? She says it’s what she worries about most. Do you agree? Have you ever had a moment where you felt like this, and if so, how did you move past it?