Brothers and Sisters in Adoption

Adding a child with a history of neglect or trauma to a family that already has children cannot be a seamless transition. The expectations of everyone involved must be realistic. The new child will need special attention and services that may take away time and attention from the already resident kids; family life is likely to be turned topsy-turvy until appropriate counseling and supports are in place; relationships will change. Here are insights and practical tools to help newly configured families prepare, and mobilize to meet the practical, physical and emotional needs of all family members.