| In early 1997,
Families for Russian & Ukrainian Adoption (FRUA) held a Parent Networking Meeting to
discuss different aspects of adoptive family life. The conversation centered on the
positives and on how to deal with some of the challenges. A kinship quickly formed among
the participants as we attempted to sort it all out.  Having a family and
being a parent is wonderful! Many of us are experiencing a second childhood through the
eyes of our children. Routine chores and special occasions are definitely more fun.
There is a strong feeling of fulfillment and a new set of priorities
which now make sense of our lives. We marvel at the changes in our children since coming
home and how they amaze us every day.
As parents of internationally born children, we now have a new
awareness. Parents are more alert to news items about Russia and other republics. For
example, at a craft fair, an Eastern European artisan will catch our eye and we initiate a
conversation. Before the children, we might never have stopped!
We love having an instant connection to other adoptive families. The
desire for more FRUA functions and discussion groups became clear. We are not just part of
a select group (internationally adopted families), but we have also taken on a new
culture.
Life as a parent does have its ups and downs. Potential challenges
for parents:
- Answering our children’s questions later on in life
- Working through the confusion of what issues really need to be addressed and what issues
are due to our adoption sensitivities. For example, a child who can’t sit still may
make us panic about ADHD, when in fact, that child may just be a typical three year old!
- How to find the necessary patience while battling fatigue!
- How to deal with the questons of well meaning strangers and sometimes negative media
coverage.
- Potty training tips for orphanage children
It was reassuring to know that these thoughts were shared by other FRUA folks. The
www.frua.org website and other FRUA materials will attempt to address some of these
issues. We welcome your ideas and material.
© 1997. All rights reserved. Families for Russian & Ukrainian Adoption, PO Box
2944, Merrifield, VA 22116 703-560-6184 |
