Does race matter when adopting?

A difficult question in our ‘politically correct’ world, where the slightest hint of difference can be blown out of propotion.

But surely, its the best interests of the child that are of paramount importance.

One would hope that the adoptive parents consider themselves to be ‘un prejudiced’ and often spend many hours considering the issues and education themselves on the possible problems of transracial adoption. 

A baby or toddler will have little or no concept of race or colour. But as the child gets older can a family from a different ethnic background provide for all the needs of that child?

Often parents who have adopted transracially, find that they may move neighbourhoods, change churchs or join different social groups to provide for the needs of their child.

So while its never a ‘No’ to transracial adoption, there are extra areas to be considerd.

For more information visit www.baby-adoption.co.uk

I received an email about a week ago from a mother who’s adopted child is now two and a half. She asked me if I knew any good books to read to her daughter to gently start introducing the idea of adoption.

At first nothing sprang to mind - I put this down to the state of my mind! and headed for a book shop.

But four book shops later and I still could not find anything suitable.

Any recommendations?

thanks

mrs b

The number of families from wealthy countries wanting to adopt children from overseas has grown substantially over the last 30 years.

But, in some overseas countries, the lack of regulation of adoption and adoption agencies is a serious concern.  Plus the potential for financial gain, has spurred the growth of an industry around adoption, where profit, rather than the best interests of child, takes centre stage.  Abuses include the sale and abduction of children, coercion of parents, and bribery. 

Many countries around the world have recognised these dangers, and have adopted the Hague Convention on Inter-Country Adoption.  This international legislation, which is designed to put into action the principles regarding inter-country adoption which are contained in the Convention on the Rights of the Child. 

The principles ensure that adoption is authorised only by competent authorities, that inter-country adoption has safeguards and standards, and that inter-country adoption does not result in improper financial gain for those involved in it. 

These provisions are meant first and foremost to protect children, but also have the positive effect of providing assurance to prospective adoptive parents that their child has not been the subject of illegal and detrimental practices.

Perhaps one day all countries allowing international adoption will support the Hague Convention and the Rights of the Child; ensuring that all overseas adoptions are in the best interest of the child, not in the interests of greedy individuals.

For more information visit www.baby-adoption.co.uk

international adoption