You Are Your Child's Advocate

by Melissa J | More from this Blogger

02 Sep 2006 12:31 AM

Issues that arise in kids that have been adopted can vary so greatly. They can be genetically caused, or environmentally. Too many times there are combinations of these issues. Children who've been exposed prenatally to drugs often have a difficult time getting a proper diagnosis. Their symptoms could be a result of neurological brain damage or something else. Regardless, you know your child and should be their number one advocate.

I have found those with children biologically will sometimes down play some of my concerns stating their kids did similar things. Usually it's meant to reassure me. It's important to remember that many odd behaviors are a part of kids' growing up. Since you are with your child more often (assuming this is the case), you see a bigger picture than someone else might. If you notice that your child is not able to be safe, is regressing, or becoming frustrated with themselves, it is something worth looking into.

Sometimes it's difficult for those of us who have not had children biologically to determine what's normal. The last thing we need is for the professionals we seek out not take our concerns seriously. Sadly, this does happen. I have found when I need to get something done, I have to be demanding and persistent which is not really in my character.

It is my responsibility to be my children's advocate. They need someone who knows them, loves them and will fight for them to get the right help. I know if I would have passed off some of my concerns as overreactions, my kids would not have gotten the help they did and may not show the progress they have.

If you are in need of support for concerns you have over your adopted child's special needs, there is a great special needs forum out there called HappyMomAnna which is dedicated to information and resources for us. There is also an adoption forum on this site as well.

Please visit my related blog: Things To Consider When Seeking a Diagnosis for Your Child

Melissa is a Families.com Christian Blogger. Read her blogs at: http://members.families.com/mj7/blog

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Megan Bayliss (3586) 02 Sep 2006 01:01 AM

Oh MJ, I so wish we had more parents like you in our world. This is an excellent reminder for all of us to strongly advocate for our children - biological, adopted, fostered, or kin cared for.