Endorsements

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This is a much needed resource! Anyone who has adopted an older child or is considering the possibility can learn from these insights and real-life examples. The authors understand the specific needs of older children and how their histories have impacted their current needs and behaviors. They grasp the relationship between trauma and brain chemistry while also conveying the hope that deep healing is possible when parents are both equipped and supported. Because attachment is developmental, this book offers practical ideas for connecting with older children with consideration to unique challenges that were learned survival skills. I admire Dr. Kittle and Dr. Reed for their own wisdom and compassion in tackling this subject. After reading this book, I hope parents are able to see beyond behaviors to their child's needs and preciousness.

Terri ColeyPost-Adoption Coordinator at Show Hope

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This book should be required reading for any family considering older child adoption. It provides real life examples of what every day looks like, and advice from professionals and real families on the same journey. This book is a welcome companion for those of us in the trenches of older child adoption. It covers a wide breadth of examples of what a family might face, and helpful advice that goes beyond theories and ideas.

Elissa HarrellAdoptive Mom

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Wisdom from Adoptive Families is a "must read" for anyone considering or currently parenting adopted youth as well as friends, family, counselors, and others in their support network. Parents who have experienced this journey share their stories with refreshingly raw honesty, and the authors' practical tips will surely ease the transition of older children into their new families.

Sheri Parris, PhDResearch Scientist with the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development

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Drs Kittle and Reed provide the reader with real stories from people who have expanded their family through adoption. Older child adoption truths are revealed through family testimony. Well-researched, easy to read and understand. Wisdom from Adoptive Families is a positive educational tool for any parent who has adopted or is considering older child adoption.

Lisa Lewis, MDAuthor, Feed the Baby Hummus, Pediatrician-Backed Secrets from Cultures Around the World

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What an invaluable resource for adoptive families. The variety of feedback from families who have actually been there is so helpful. As a mom who HAS been there, I appreciate so many of the tidbits. You can't make this stuff up!

Melissa CorkumAdoption, Wellness, and Homeschool Blogger

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Thank you for writing this book. You have created a comprehensive review of older adoptions in an easy-to-read and extremely practical manner. You have not shied away from discussing the real challenges that adoptive parents face and your ability to be candid and honest about the real struggles will be a great resource to families adopting older children. I also love the way that you don’t give a “one size fits all” on how to work through the challenges. You give multiple ways on how families have worked through issues in the past and do a great job of showing how not every adoption is the same. I will be excited to add this book to our resource list her at Gladney. Great Job!!

Bill PorterDirector of Post Adoption and Client Services, Gladney Center for Adoption