How and when does your child/children wake you in the morning
Children 2 & 4 wake 7-7.30am
Why adoption?
After years of IVF then a break of 4 years we moved to adoption.
From start of assessment to bringing your child home how long did the process take?
12 months from start of stage 1 preparation / assessment
How could it be improved?
Better communication and feedback re child finding. More easily accessible support during introductions and before/ after ao.
What has been the biggest surprise?
Expecting the worst case scenarios having heard all the negatives during prep and then finding we have thankfully not experienced any in the year our children have been with us as well as they children settling fast and easily.
How was the assessment process?
Blessed with a meticulous, professional and flexible social worker who made the process excellent. Since we have had serious issues with our children’s SW/ LA which are on-going despite being 6 months post AO being granted.
What’s your favourite thing to do together?
Outing to the park, beach, playing together or cuddled watching a movie.
What makes you and your family laugh?
So much. Our children are very funny and come out with endless things that make us laugh, plus the terrible toilet humour. Watching Wallace & Grommet together.
The best thing about being a parent?
The joy of seeing your children doing the simplest things and be so proud of their achievements. The cuddles, the hugs, the kisses and fun.
The hardest thing about being a parent?
The feeling of guilt that you could have handled a situation better, the tiredness and the feeling of being powerless when your child is in pain and all you can do to help is offer comfort when you just wish you could take their pain away.
The piece of wisdom you would pass on to a child?
That there is no perfect childhood/ life and not to let childhood difficulties become a barrier to having a good life/ future and not to let it be an excuse not to move on and do your best at anything you enjoy and that you happy.
What time do you go to bed?
kids 7pm us 11/12pm
