We are always looking for ways to support you! ACI is proud to announce a new online community called Adoption Community Connection! Designed to build a safe space for adoptive families and waiting families to create connections with other families, find and share resources, and most importantly, to know you are not alone. Shared through […]
If you are considering adoption, the first step is to attend a Program Introduction meeting. These meetings are free to the public. This meeting will be a live webinar. Pre-registration is required. This can be completed by clicking "find out more" and scrolling to "register here" link. The following topics are covered at Program Introduction […]
Recent research in neuroscience has confirmed what many clinicians have long known: Early relationships between caregivers and infants/young children matter and have lifelong implications for children. In order to help each child reach their potential, supportive and caring relationships are essential. This lecture will address the process of creating lasting attachments with adoptive children, some […]
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 […]
Kay Holler, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, will explore the stages of a child’s development, and what he/she is thinking about in terms of adoption at each stage. She will also discuss how to talk about adoption with your child and the importance of offering emotional support. Kay has been working in the adoption field for […]
REGISTER FOR THIS COURSE ONLY IF YOU HAVE TAKEN LEVEL 1 Step-by-step, hands-on instruction on how to do up to three simple hairstyles; ponytails, twists, basic underhand braiding; plus Q&A with S4K stylist. Parents use their own recommended tools. A list can be provided. (Supply kits can be purchased at an additional cost) Parents practice […]
Adult Adoptee Panel Discussion: Adoptees Share Their Experiences What does adoption look like through the lens of someone who was adopted? How does someone who was adopted suggest talking to children about adoption? This class is conducted with a panel of adults who were adopted as children. The panelists discuss their lives, the history of […]
If you are considering adoption, the first step is to attend a Program Introduction meeting. These meetings are free to the public. This meeting will be a live webinar. Pre-registration is required. This can be completed by clicking "find out more" and scrolling to "register here" link. The following topics are covered at Program Introduction […]
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 […]
Attorney Genie Miller Gillespie will discuss the steps that prospective adoptive parents should take to achieve a safe and legal adoption. Discussion will focus on the legal issues in adoption, which include proper preparation, termination of parental rights, limiting legal risk, applicable Illinois and federal law, the process of doing an Illinois adoption, and the […]
This is a moderated panel discussion. The panel is comprised of birth parents that have placed children for adoption. Panelists will discuss their personal experience with adoption and address topics that they consider important and that are raised by the moderator. Audience members will have an opportunity to ask questions. They will be asked to […]
Recent research in neuroscience has confirmed what many clinicians have long known: Early relationships between caregivers and infants/young children matter and have lifelong implications for children. In order to help each child reach their potential, supportive and caring relationships are essential. This lecture will address the process of creating lasting attachments with adoptive children, some […]
If you are considering adoption, the first step is to attend a Program Introduction meeting. These meetings are free to the public. This meeting will be a live webinar. Pre-registration is required. This can be completed by clicking "find out more" and scrolling to "register here" link. The following topics are covered at Program Introduction […]
