Understanding ‘Special Needs’ Child Adoption

What do you think of when you hear the term ‘special needs’? Any number of ideas or terms might surface. Some of them may be negative or stigmatized. In the adoption community, the term ‘special needs’ is often disliked for these exact assumptions.

One major reason why people find the term to be problematic is that it is so unspecific. Legally, special needs could encompass a great many conditions and traits; some people with special needs may have limited mobility, some may be minorities, some may just be older than a toddler. However, many people also dislike the term because it can carry some aspect of a negative connotation.

The truth of ‘special needs’ children is that they are simply labeled ‘special needs’ by their state. What this means exactly can change over time, and vary by state. Read on to find out what it might mean for you as a prospective parent.

Definitions

Ultimately, the term ‘special needs’ reflects information about the adoptive parents’ eligibility for financial assistance from the state more than it reflects a particular characteristic of the child. Not all special needs children share some particular trait or background. Rather, states identify a factor or condition that they deem a special need, and then the children who fall into such categories are more likely to be awarded financial aid when adopted by parents.

Generally, a special need may refer to several different traits. All of these traits will usually make it more difficult for the child to find an adoptive family. Common characteristics include certain ethnic or racial backgrounds, being older rather than younger, real or risked disabilities based on medical records and family history, and any child who seeks to stay with his or her siblings, also in foster care. Since these children may find it more difficult to be adopted, these are the types of categories that often place a child as ‘special needs.’

Your State’s Laws

To find out the definition of ‘special needs’ in your own state, seek out government resources online or in person. It can also be helpful to contact the attorney or adoption agency you are working with for assistance. As an example, here was Texas’s definition of ‘special needs’ as of the end of 2014:

“1. The child is in the care of DFPS, has not turned 18 years old and meets one of the following conditions: A) The child is at least 6 years old. B) The child is part of a minority ethnic group and is at least 2 years old. C) The child is part of a sibling group that is being adopted together or is being adopted to join siblings that have previously been adopted. D) The child has a physically, mentally, or emotionally handicapping condition as verified in writing by a physician. E) The child qualifies to receive SSI benefits for disability.

“2. DFPS has determined that the child cannot or should not return home to their parents.

“3. A reasonable effort has been made to find an adoptive placement for the child without paid Adoption Assistance.”

Understanding What’s Needed

Now that you know how versatile this label can actually be, it’s important to consider its consequences for the adoption process. There are no hardships placed on adoptive parents, which means that prospective parents do not need to have any special qualifications or training in order to adopt a special needs child. But, like all major life decisions, the decision to adopt a special needs child should not be taken too lightly.

Often times, the decision to adopt a special needs child is made with support and help from an adoption agency, attorney, or other qualified and professional support network. If you are adopting a child who has behavioral issues or disabilities, it will be important to have an accurate and full idea of what good parenting will look like. Medications, doctor visits, changes to the home furniture as well as changes to daily life may be required to create the optimal home setting for your adopted child.

Beyond adoption agencies, there are many support networks that can offer insight into your capabilities as the prospective parent of a special needs child. Depending on what type of adoption you are seeking, search for people in support groups that have experiences in the type of situation that you are looking to possibly enter into. Take note of their struggles and victories. Do you see yourself fitting into these same circumstances?

Some states offer online self-assessment tests to offer an idea of one’s readiness to adopt a special needs child. As long as the source of the information you use is a trusted and respectable source, what you learn will be helpful on the journey.

Adopting always has its obstacles and moments of transition. There are so many things to learn about life, and about one’s new child. Adopting a child with special needs is no different in this respect. But it’s still important to be fully prepared and in a place where you can give your new child the best life that is possible.

About Action Adoption at Providence PlacePlacing a child for adoption is an important decision that requires careful consideration. Are you contemplating this loving option? Do you have any idea about how or where to start? Action Adoption at   Providence   Place  in Texas can help. We will guide you through the process while making sure all your questions are answered. Contact us today to learn more.