Educational Courses

Embracing Openness

Many adoptive parents are intimidated by the idea of having a relationship with their birth parents. This session will focus on fostering a positive relationship from the initial meeting through the post-placement letters, pictures, and visits.

When: October 8, 2008 7:00 PM
Where: Cherry Hill, NJ, USA

Infant and Child CPR/AED

Participants will receive one year American Red Cross Infant & Child CPR/EAED certification upon completion of the 4.5 hour course. Course is led by Certified Red Cross trainers and open to pre/post adoptive parents and extended family and friends. Class will have a break and refreshments will be provided.

When: October 18, 2008 10:00 AM
Where: Hazlet, NJ, USA

Caring for Infants and Older Babies

Learn the basics of infant and child care in a comfortable setting with other adoptive parents and pre-adoptive parents. This class will include newborn care, feeding and changing your baby, choosing a pediatrician, making the adjustment to parenthood, and more. This class is recommended for all adoptive families. Bring your questions.

When: October 8, 2008 7:00 PM
Where: Harrisburg, PA, USA

What Your Commitment Means (Birthmother Panel)

The amount of openness that you have decided on in your adoption is a very important and personal decision -- only you can decide what is best for your family. In this session, hear from a birthmother about the importance of following through with the promises that you have made. Hear both sides of the story. Hear how promises broken affects a birthparent. In addition, hear from a birthparent about the impact it has when a child’s adoptive parents remain committed to their plan.

When: October 15, 2008 6:30 PM
Where: Lancaster, PA, USA

Talking With Your Child About Adoption

How and when do I tell my child that they are adopted? And how can I be prepared for the Questions my child will ask about their adoption story? Parents need to share their child’s adoption story in a way that is specific to age and to the various developmental stages of a child’s life. Join Chrissy Valania, MSW for a discussion about when and how it makes sense to tell your child about adoption and how to prepare for questions your child will ask.

When: September 20, 2008 10:00 AM
Where: Pittsburgh, PA, USA

Basic Childcare

Everyone knows becoming a parent is a big responsibility. But how do you choose a pediatrician that is right for you or when should you take your child to the doctor? Darcy Yeloushan is an RN/BSN and she will teach the basics of childcare to help you adjust to parenthood. Come and enjoy a comfortable setting with other pre/post adoptive parents. Bring your questions.

When: October 4, 2008 10:00 AM
Where: Pittsburgh, PA, USA

Newborn and Infant Childcare

Be prepared when the time comes to bring your child home. Amanda Beattie is a nurse practitioner and aclinical educator at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and she will help you learn proper techniques to use when caring for your child as you make the transition into parenthood.

When: September 15, 2008 6:30 PM
Where: Wynnewood, PA, USA

Create a Lifebook to Last a Lifetime

A hands on session with Michele Deane, AFTH China adoptive mother and co-owner of “Memories Galore.” Michele will provide facilitating and thought provoking exercises for the framework of a Lifebook. There is organizational structure and a 90 day plan to finish the project. There is package of materials available for an additional $50 to start the Lifebook during the session. This is a perfect chance for those who have adopted to make a permanent Lifebook to share with their child now and in the future. Richmond Office will hold class in Midlothian, VA.

When: November 8, 2008 1:30 PM
Where: Richmond, VA, USA