Attaching in Adoption: Practical Tools for Today's Parents
Proper attachment is the most fundamental issue in a successful  adoption, but what exactly does the term mean?Attaching in Adoptionanswers that question thoroughly, and it provides solutions to a variety of  specific attachment problems.Along with technical explanations of challenges such as self-esteem, childhood  grief, and limit-testing, the book includes a tremendous number of personal  vignettes illustrating attachment-related situations. Parents who are convinced  that only their child has ever behaved a certain way are sure to take comfort in  these stories; not only do they include kids from all backgrounds and age  groups, but each has an ultimately happy ending. The emotional health of the  whole family is also paramount according to the book--with plenty of rest and  "alone time," caregivers are more likely to be emotionally available when they  are most needed.BecauseAttaching in Adoptionfocuses on special needs, families who are  coming together through foster programs, at later ages, or across cultural lines  will find it especially helpful. Both psychologically detailed and  straightforwardly helpful, it can be of equal benefit to counselors and parents  alike.--Jill Lightner