Suggested Resources
	Are Those Kids Yours? American Families with Children Adopted from Other Countries, by Cheri Register, Ph.D.
	Raising Adopted Children, by Lois Melina
	Additional Books &  Resources

Gathering Information

Few choices in life are as significant as the decision to adopt a child. Doing your research and gathering information is a critical first step. That's why we believe that attending one of Spence-Chapin's free information meetings in Manhattan, New Jersey, or Long Island is a great way to get started. You'll meet families who have recently brought their children home and members of our professional staff who will give you detailed information and answer any questions you may have.

The Home Study Process

When you begin working with Spence-Chapin, you'll start preparing for the arrival of your child by completing our home study process. You will meet with your social workers in a group of other families preparing to adopt in either Manhattan, New Jersey, or Long Island. You will work through all the necessary paperwork and discuss the transition to parenthood and the issues you might face. Topics include telling your child about adoption, raising a child who may look different from you; traveling abroad, and the health and medical care of your child in his or her birth country. People interested in adoption through our agency should not have a home study done before coming to us.

Support with Every Step

Adopting internationally is a challenging experience, even with a high level of support and guidance. You'll undoubtedly have questions and concerns as you go through the process. Your social worker will encourage you along the way. You'll also have access to our “Buddy Program,” which puts you in contact with experienced adoptive parents. If you'll be traveling to complete the adoption, a Spence-Chapin representative will meet and travel with you, and walk you through every step of the process abroad.

After Your Placement

As a member of the Spence-Chapin family, we hope that you will join us at a variety of celebrations and events hosted by the agency. The Adoption Resource Center (ARC) welcomes all members of the adoption community and conducts workshops, discussion groups, seminars and counseling. It's component, SPARK Child Development for Adoptive Families, focuses specifically on developmental issues. Spence-Chapin celebrates the heritage of all the children in our family with annual cultural celebrations and a large Halloween party where we all come together and see how we've grown!