When choosing permanent homes for foster children, attachment, permanence, and kinship can be used as criteria for selection. Each of these criteria represents an established value in child welfare theory. Reports a case study of three siblings entering adoption in which the three criteria formed the basis for a placement recommendation that…

Notes that open adoption is less typical in adoptions of special-needs children; presents a model for openness in special-needs adoptions. Notes that the primary benefit of openness for an adopted child is loss minimization and maintenance of familial connections even in cases of abuse or neglect, as children continue to form significant…

The TIES [Training, Intervention, Education, and Services] for Adoption program in Los Angeles, attempts to reduce obstacles to adoption of children in out-of-home care who experienced prenatal substance exposure. Interviews with parents conducted at intervals following home placement reveal experiences and concerns, parenting aspects and adoption…

Semi-open, open, and other alternatives to the confidentiality of traditional adoption procedures are discussed by focusing on the needs of adoptive and birth parents. Positive outcomes of alternative approaches to adoption for all members of the adoption triangle are indicated. (Author/RH)

Notes that successful child placement depends on engaging birth or previously adopted children during the adoption process, yet other children are often overlooked when parents are adopting a special-needs child. Presents a model which recognizes dynamics of strength and vulnerability and applies that model to preparing and supporting the adoptive…

A conference on bonding and attachment attended by professionals and foster and adoptive parents was followed by a questionnaire survey of participants which was designed to measure effectiveness. A follow-up survey was conducted six months later. Professionals and parents benefited from combined training sessions. (BB)

Notes that attachment behavior in infants is a facet of normal child development, and that children with attachment problems require special attention during and after the adoption process. Presents actions needed to increase the probability that such children can be successfully adopted, detailed attachment patterns, and parenting strategies and…