Post-Adoption Support and Resources for Wisconsin Adoptive Families
You’re Not Alone in Your Adoption Journey
Families formed through adoption are different from families formed by birth. The differences are neither fully positive nor fully negative, but they can add richness and challenges, sometimes simultaneously. As a Wisconsin adoptive parent, you understand that raising adopted children comes with unique joys and complexities that require specialized support and understanding.
At the Wisconsin Family Connections Center, we recognize that general parenting advice often falls short when it comes to the specific needs of adoptive families. That’s why we’ve dedicated ourselves to providing comprehensive post-adoption support, resources, and connections tailored specifically for families like yours.
Find information on our trauma-informed parenting virtual support group for connecting and learning from families in similar situations.
Comprehensive Post-Adoption Support Services
Expert Guidance for Common Adoptive Parenting Challenges
Whether you’re navigating your child’s questions about their birth family, supporting a teenager through identity development, or addressing behavioral challenges rooted in early trauma, we have resources designed specifically for your situation.
Our specialized support includes:
- Trauma-informed parenting strategies for adopted children
- Age-appropriate ways to discuss adoption with your child
- Educational advocacy resources for school-related challenges
- Mental health support specifically for adoptive families
- Crisis resources and emergency support connections
Essential Resources for Wisconsin Adoptive Parents
Downloadable Tip Sheets for Real-Life Situations
Our comprehensive library of tip sheets addresses the most common challenges facing adoptive families in Wisconsin:
Child Development and Behavioral Support
- Through the Lens of Adoption: Understanding Child Development & Adoption’s Impact
- Navigating Homework Challenges: Understanding Triggers for Children in Alternative Living Arrangements
- Sibling Conflict in Adoptive Families: Strategies for Managing Family Dynamics
Communication and Identity
- Empowering Your Child to Share Their Adoption Story
- Talking to Your Children About Their Birth Parents
- Missing Pieces: Talking to Your Child About Adoption When Information Is Limited
Mental Health and Emotional Support
- Depression in Teens Who Were Adopted: What Families Need to Know
- Post-Adoption Depression Syndrome: I Thought I’d Be Happy
- Fact or Fiction: Dispelling Some of the Common Myths About Adoption
Educational and Social Support
- Education & Adoption: Working With Students and Families
- Adoption in the Media & Entertainment: Books, Television, and Movies
- Somebody to Lean On: Connecting With a Parent Group
Wisconsin-Specific Support Networks
Family Support Groups Throughout Wisconsin
Connect with other adoptive families who understand your journey. Our comprehensive directory includes both statewide and regional support groups, as well as online resources for families across Wisconsin.
Download Complete List of Wisconsin Family Support Groups & Associations
Respite Care for Wisconsin Adoptive Families
Every parent needs a break, and adoptive families often face unique stresses that make respite care essential. Access our directory of Wisconsin providers who understand the needs of adoptive families.
Download Wisconsin Respite Care Providers Directory
Specialized Support for Adoptive Families
Short-Term Case Management Services (GIFTS Program)
Sometimes you need more than information – you need personalized guidance. Our GIFTS program provides free, short-term case management specifically designed for Wisconsin post-adoptive families facing challenges.
Case management services include:
- Personalized family assessments
- Connection to Wisconsin-specific resources
- Ongoing support and coaching
- Service coordination and referrals
Learn more about our case management services for adoptive families.
Mental Health Resources for Adopted Children and Teens
Finding therapists who understand adoption is crucial for your family’s success. We maintain directories of Wisconsin mental health professionals experienced in adoption-related issues, trauma-informed care, and family therapy.
Access our Wisconsin mental health resources for adoptive families.
Supporting Your Child Through Different Life Stages
Early Childhood Adoption Support
Finalization and Beyond:
- Lighting the Path to Family Success: The Vital Role of Pre-Permanency Preparation, highlighting the importance of building familial relationships and lifelong commitments through appropriate preparation and training, outlining eleven benefits of pre-permanency training
- Final Preparations: Getting Yourself & Your Child Ready for Adoption Finalization
School-Age Support
Educational Advocacy:
Working with schools to ensure your adopted child receives appropriate support and understanding. Our resources help you navigate educational challenges unique to adopted children.
Teen and Young Adult Support
Identity and Mental Health:
The teenage years can be particularly complex for adopted youth. Our specialized resources address depression, identity formation, and preparing for independence.
- Featured Resource: Not Too Old for Forever: Adopting an Older Youth – Support for families who have adopted teenagers.
Building Connections and Finding Community
No Matter What Families Support Network
The No Matter What Families initiative, created by the Coalition for Children, Youth & Families, provides inspiration and hope for families facing difficult times. This resource features real stories from real families, offering encouragement when you feel alone in your struggles.
These stories demonstrate that every family faces challenges, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Wisconsin Foster & Adoptive Parent Association
Connect with Wisconsin’s leading organization for adoptive and foster families. WFAPA provides ongoing advocacy, resources, and community connections throughout the state.
Open Adoption and Birth Family Relationships
Navigating Ongoing Relationships
Promoting Ongoing Engagement Between Birth Families and Adoptive Families: Access expert guidance on maintaining healthy relationships with your child’s birth family, understanding post-adoption contact agreements, and supporting your child’s connections to their birth family.
Wisconsin Waiver Services for Adopted Children
If your adopted child has disabilities or special needs, Wisconsin offers specific waiver services to support your family. These services can provide additional resources and support beyond what’s typically available to families.
Download our comprehensive guide to Wisconsin Waiver Services available to adopted children with special needs.
Crisis Support and Emergency Resources
When You Need Immediate Help
Adoptive families sometimes face unique crises that require specialized understanding. While we provide ongoing support and resources, we also want to ensure you know where to turn in emergency situations.
Crisis Resources:
- Mental health crisis support
- Family crisis intervention
- Emergency respite care options
- 24/7 support hotlines
Access our complete mental health resources directory as well as tips on managing crisis behavior.
Get Personalized Support for Your Wisconsin Adoptive Family
Every adoptive family’s journey is unique, and sometimes you need personalized guidance to navigate specific challenges. Our team of adoption specialists understands the complexities of post-adoption life and is here to help connect you with the right resources and support.
Contact us today at 800-762-8063 to:
- Discuss your family’s specific needs
- Get referrals to Wisconsin adoption specialists
- Learn about available support groups in your area
- Access personalized resource recommendations
You can schedule a call with our Resource Team.
Remember, seeking support isn’t a sign that adoption isn’t working – it’s a sign that you’re committed to helping your family thrive. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
