Child Hosting Programs: Preparing to be a Host Family

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What should you consider when preparing to become a host family to a child who is eligible for international adoption? We talk with Misty Lucas, an International Program Director at Gladney Center for Adoption. 

In this episode, we talk about:

For listeners new to this topic, what is a child hosting program, and what are the goals of hosting today? How have hosting programs changed in recent years, especially around ethics and child welfare practices? What types of children most commonly participate in hosting programs (ages, sibling groups, common needs, etc.)? Are children typically already eligible for adoption before participating?What does it look like to be a host family?What types of families tend to thrive in hosting programsWhat does it mean to advocate for a child during hosting?What signs may suggest a family is not ready?What kind of screening, training, and preparation do host families typically complete?How much information do families usually receive about a child beforehand?How should families prepare the children already living in their home?Are there special considerations for families whose children already have trauma histories or who were adopted themselves?Why is it so important for host families to understand trauma before hosting?How does trauma commonly show up during hosting, especially in a short-term environment?What behaviors or emotional responses should families realistically expect?What are common mistakes well-intentioned host families make?Hosting programs can raise strong criticisms and concerns. What are the most common criticisms or misunderstandings about hosting?How do ethical programs work to reduce a child’s feelings of being “chosen” or evaluated?How are children prepared emotionally before they travel?How do programs and host families work to avoid creating false hope for children?What does a typical hosting session look like? How long, what to do, etc.What activities and support should host families expect during hosting?What financial realities should families understand before committing?Can families host even if they are unsure about adoption?If a family decides they want to pursue adoption, what typically happens next?
What does that process and timeline often look like?
What is emotionally difficult for families after a child returns home while adoption decisions are pending?Are the children made aware of a potential adoption plan once hosting is over? What does a successful hosting experience look like from the child’s perspective?What’s one thing you hope every prospective host family understands before beginning? 

Resources:

Gladney Center for Adoption, Hosting ProgramHosting Package from CreatingaFamilyEd.orgIs Our Family Right for an “Orphan” Hosting Program? 7 Questions to AskPrepare for Hosting an International Orphan 

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