July 2020
Understanding Trauma: How Hard Experiences Can Affect Children and Why if Matters for You – WEBINAR
Children who are placed for adoption have lived through hard experiences, from separation from their birth parents to neglect, abuse, and other forms of trauma. As you prepare to adopt a child, it is important for you to know that trauma affects child development in ways that influence emotions, behavior, and relationships. This class will help you understand your child through a trauma lens, which can help you respond to their unique needs. It is presented by Corinne Fleming, Psy.D.,…
Find out more »LGBTQ Panel – WEBINAR
This panel class will support LGBTQ prospective adoptive parents and adoptive parents by providing a forum where they can learn from others who have been through similar experiences. Panelists will speak about their journeys through the adoption process and parenting as members of the LGBTQ community. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions of the panelists. REGISTRATION: To register for this class, please email registration@adoptillinois.org. Please include in the email (1) name of the class (2) full…
Find out more »Program Introduction Meeting – Webinar
If you are considering adoption, the first step is to attend a Program Introduction meeting. These meetings are held on a monthly basis and are free to the public. This meeting will be a webinar. Pre-registration is required for all meetings. REGISTRATION: To register for this class, please email registration@adoptillinois.org. Please include in the email (1) name of the class (2) full names of those planning to attend (3) email addresses and (4) phone numbers. The following topics…
Find out more »August 2020
Baby Care 101
Join Becky O'Connell, one of our temporary care providers, and learn the "baby basics". Becky will discuss "The Big Three" (You will learn what they are!) and include suggestions and demonstrations to help you understand, enjoy, soothe and stimulate your baby. This class is suitable for waiting families, those with infants under one year, and anyone who needs a refresher course in infant care. Parents are welcome to bring babies (only those younger than three months please.) Attendance will be…
Find out more »Adoption Sensitivity in School
From daycare to high school, families should think about how they can advocate for adoption sensitivity in the school setting. This presentation will address topics including positive adoption language, adoption-sensitive curriculum, and multicultural awareness in schools. We will also discuss adoption-related books and helpful resources. REGISTRATION: To register for this class, please email registration@adoptillinois.org. Please include in the email (1) name of the class (2) full names of those planning to attend (3) email addresses and (4) phone…
Find out more »Race and Adoption: A Panel Discussion
Many families either have adopted a child or are considering adopting a child of another race, culture, and/or ethnicity. When taking into account the role of race in our society, this invariably raises questions and concerns. Many adoptive families begin this journey without the benefit of having had an opportunity to hear individuals (adult adoptees and adoptive parents) talk about their experience with trans-racial adoption. Panelists will share individual insights and experiences and respond to questions from the audience. Particular…
Find out more »Tips for the Toddler Years
Becky O’Connell, one of ACI’s temporary care providers and a former preschool teacher, believes that “The Terrible Twos” is a myth. She’ll tell you why and share methods for dealing with your child’s emerging independence. In this practical class, you’ll revisit “The Big Three” and discuss topics suggested by the participants. The class is suitable for those waiting to adopt, especially an older child, and anyone parenting a child between 1 and 3 years old. REGISTRATION: To register for…
Find out more »September 2020
Prenatal Drug and Alcohol Exposure: What Prospective Parents Need to Know
Some children who are placed for adoption were prenatally exposed to drugs and/or alcohol. While this may alarm prospective parents, increased awareness can be helpful. This class will teach prospective parents about the effects of prenatal drug and alcohol exposure, explore what related symptoms can look like over time, and outline available services for children and families who need them. This can help prospective parents make decisions, gain a frame of reference for potential concerns, and ultimately maximize their child’s…
Find out more »African-American Hair Care: Styles 4 Kidz Hands-On Hair Care Workshop
Step-by-step, hands-on instruction on how to do up to three simple hairstyles; ponytails, twists, basic underhand braiding; plus question & answer with S4K stylist Includes a hair care bundle for each parent-child pair Parents attend with their child. Child's hair should be clean, brushed, and not in a a protective style. REGISTRATION: To register for this class, please email registration@adoptillinois.org. Please include in the email (1) name of the class (2) full names of those planning to attend…
Find out more »