My husband and I want to adopt a child that is deaf or hard of hearing, do you know of any possibilities?

Question

We have a daughter who is 8 months old and have a huge desire to adopt a child who is deaf or hard of hearing. We are a Christian family and have a big passion for the deaf community. We want to add to our family. Please let me know if you know any possible connections.

Answer 1

My husband and I have have also considered adopting a child who is deaf/ hard of hearing, as we both know ASL. Here are a couple of sites that I've found to be helpful.

http://www.deafadoption.org/

http://www.rainbowkids.com/WC/Default.as... (this site has a photolisting of international "waiting" children, including those who are deaf/ hard of hearing.

Answer 2

Bless you and your family  there are so many children that have some sort of disability and they are often over looked for a completely healthy child.  Your family might considered starting to learn sign language now, if you don’t already know it.  That way when you get your child you will be able to community with him or her. And even teach them depending on how much or little they know

Answer 3

Contact social services in your state regarding your special request.

A couple I know gave birth to a Downs Syndrome daughter and asked Social Services to notify them if someone wants to place a Downs Syndrome baby girl.  One was found in another state.  They are now 4 and 5 year old sisters. Be clear of your reasons for wanting a child with a disability.  This couple didn't want their daughter to grow up without any siblings, but felt another girl with the same condition would benefit both, long term.

Answer 4

There are plenty of agencies that work strictly with children with disabilities.  You should contact your local DDD dept and ask them for the names of some of the agencies that they work with.

Answer 5

look for an adoption agency that specializes in placing special needs kids. good luck to you and your family.

Answer 6

You should try Five Acres.  They specialize in adoptions of children with disabilities including hearing loss.  Also, don't forget that school districts and resource centers offer wonderful free services for families with deaf children starting at birth.  Be sure to take advantage of these.  

The website for Five Acres is www.fiveacres.org.

Good luck!