Considering Adopting Disabled Niece..?

Question

I am currently 20yrs old, and I have foster placement of my baby nephew (As of Jan 17, 2007)... I've been fighting to get placement of my disabled niece (his sister), whos almost 3 yrs old. I don't know what to do to prove to the court that I want to take care of her. I'm in the middle of adopting her brother right now.. (YAY!!) and I want custody of his sister... What do I have to do to get her? Do I need a medical degree? Medical Training? ?????? If anyone knows, please let me know... Thank you!!

Answer 1

That's a good question to ask of her social worker, doctors, and foster family.

You don't mention her disability.  Every child is different anyway.  You need to know what's wrong.

Usually, you'll be provided training.  Take a CPR and a first aid class.  It's good to know, and looks good to the folks looking to place her with you.

Good luck

Answer 2

Not sure what you are asking.  You have been/are going through the adoption process with your nephew (good luck with that!) so, why can't you follow the same process?  If there is more we don't know, edit and add some further details  to your question so we can respond and possibly help. Good luck!

Answer 3

No You don't have to be a doctor or nurse to adopt a special needs child.

You might look in your area and see if there are any training programs for Special Needs Adoption... These are generally a 20-40 hour or so course offered over several weeks or a few long Saturdays. Find one that is Certified and qualifies for people to adopt Special Needs Foster Children as these are typically better recognized as meeting criteria for Special Needs Adoptions.

At that kind of Training they will have tons of other literature including specialised classes for specific issues, and other certificates you can earn.

Most of these classes are Free or very low cost and in most cases if you let them know it is for Fostering or Adopting there will be waivers.

Be sure to get a First aide and CPR including the infant and child portion certificate. The Red Cross offers these courses and again it will usually take a few evening or a couple of Saturdays to complete...Even if it isn't required it will make your qualifications more solid.

Find out if there are any support groups for parents of Special Needs and especially those needs of the child....Or for Special Needs adoptions and start going to them... This shows that you know the value of not doing things all on your own...and will have people to access as part of your support system.

If the children have been in the "system" be learn what you can about any of the Post Adoption Support programs in your state, including the Special Needs Adoption Support Subsidies... These may include cash subsidies that may be used for Respite care and other needs unrealated to Medical or Education.

Make a Written Plan and show that you have established a Support System as parenting two children is not double the work it is Ten Times as much... The biggest issue that you will face is your age--I think you know that... So for you it will matter much more than for a 35 year old couple.

Look over your life, including High School and think of everything you have ever done that would not only make you a solid parent--but, one that has some skills to deal with things like, paperwork, organizing, and Advocating...

Special Needs Parents are Our Child's Best Advocates so, gather everything that you could imagine you might need in the event of a crisis... Phone numbers and resources.

Clearly, you have a home study...

The other issue I see possible is what her placement status is... Is she in a non-relative foster home? And if so, are those parents interested in adopting her.

Because this is Family and because you will be adopting a sibling then that should make a big differenc. If she is placed with another family member--then it could get sticky if they don't want to agree.

oh....and come join our website as we focus mainly on Special Needs foster adoptions.. (shhhhhh we are trying to open to all adoptive parents more).... Many of the state CPS offices know our site and provide us with support information to assist us in helping special needs adoptive families face the challenges....

http://AdoptiveParentsNetwork.com/

Answer 4

Is your niece currently in foster care?  If not, it may have to do with the parents not choosing to terminate their rights.  Even though you want to adopt your niece, more needs to occur (as I'm sure you know) before the child is eligible for adoption.  However, if she is currently in foster care, you should ask for "kinship care" of her.  That is where a relative is allowed to be a foster parent for the child.

You also didn't mention what type of disability your niece has.  Our son has special needs and we did not need special medical training or a medical degree to bring him home.  However, it can never hurt to research and get more information and/or training that will help you to be a better parent if you are granted custody of her.  

Good luck and Congrats on your pending adoption with her brother!

Answer 5

it really depends upon her disability.  my brother has down symdome. I can take care of him but there are alot of disabilities that do take medical training to educate yourself talk to your doctor they will advice you.