These classes focus on certain aspects of adoption issues, but most of them are also appropriate to use for ongoing training for all foster parents.  You are welcome to take any of them by registering at the 800# where you will receive information about locations.  Be aware that some are very specific such as the infertility class which is for parents experiencing infertility issues and the kinship class which is for those people planning to adopt a relative’s child.    

RISK FACTORS 1 AND 2:  Must both be taken for full credit for Adoption.  It will examine current information about inherited illnesses (including mental illnesses), congenital conditions (including cerebral palsy), and the risks and effects of prenatal drug exposure, alcohol and HIV.

EMBRACING YOUR CHILD’S HERITAGE:  Especially relevant for those who plan to adopt cross culturally, this class will broaden your awareness of race as an ongoing issue of an individual’s development and as part of an adoption.

ADULT ADOPTEE PANEL:  A panel of adults who were adopted as children will share their perceptions about identity issues for adoptees, growing up adopted, searches and reunions with birth parents, etc.  Questions are welcomed.

KINSHIP ADOPTION:  Designed for those adopting a relative’s child.  It explores life changes, changing roles, and relationships with birth parents who are relatives. Resources in the community for kinship caregivers will be examined.

ADOPTING AFTER INFERTILITY:  Designed for people with infertility issues who are planning to adopt.  It will examine grief and loss issues around infertility and examine how that affects parenting by adoption.

PLACEMENT PROCESS:  This class outlines the process of adoption and examines the Telling, Showing, Transition and Placement of a child.   It covers matching, concurrent placements, supervision and court process.

ADOPTION THE LIFELONG PROCESS:  This class explores the various issues that adoptive families face throughout their lifetimes.  It covers core issues, how to talk to children about adoption and birth parents at different stages of development.  Open adoption issues are explored.

ADDRESS DETAILS:  Balboa = HHSA Bldg, 8965 Balboa Ave, San Diego 92123
                                         CV=Chula Vista = HHSA Bldg, 690 Oxford St, Chula Vista, 91911
                                         San Marcos = Straight from the Heart, 851 W. San Marcos Blvd, San Marcos, 92078

All classes meet from 6-9 pm unless on Saturdays which are 9am-noon.

To register call 1-800-200-1222