According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, over 50,000 special needs children are adopted each year. Raising a child is a significant undertaking, so it’s important to understand your responsibilities and how the change will affect your life. Before entering into a special needs adoption, learn as much as possible to make the adjustment easier for you and your new family member.

5 Things to Know About a Special Needs Adoption

1. You Shouldn’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

Every child is a handful at times, but special needs children require a bit of extra care. You shouldn't be the type of parent who refuses to ask for help — it really does take a village to raise a child. If your family and friends offer assistance, accept it. Don't hesitate to enlist support from professional caregivers and social services if you need them.

2. Money Is a Constant Concern

You will worry about money a lot. This is only natural when you think about the additional resources your child will need to grow and thrive. But the good news outweighs financial concerns because your child will have what they need to be a valued part of a home, family, school, and community. Money can't buy that precious sense of belonging.

3. You Will Be Stressed

Every new parent runs low on sleep and high on anxiety. Special needs children might depend on family members for help with even elementary tasks, so you often might feel stretched to the limit. Ask others for help when necessary and take a little time for yourself on a regular basis.

4. Celebrate the Small Stuff

Special needs kids deal with more challenges and complications than other children. Don't measure their success in large steps or massive accomplishments; appreciate the little victories at every stage. It’s important to celebrate these small triumphs with your child because they probably worked twice as hard as most kids to achieve them.

5. Be Mindful of Advice

Everyone from doctors to family members will give you advice on how to raise your special needs child. While they undoubtedly have good intentions, use your judgment when it comes to applying their suggestions. You know your child best and understand what works and what doesn't.

When welcoming a special needs child into your family, being aware of the above considerations will make the process smoother for everyone. John E. Bach, Attorney at Law, has been serving the Goshen, NY, area for more than three decades, providing legal guidance on adoptions and other family law issues. Call (845) 294-7941 to schedule an appointment with a lawyer and visit the firm's website for more information about their practice areas.