The Waiting Game

What to do while you're waiting to welcome your child home.

We experienced the waiting game when my husband and I recently decided to adopt a second child from foster care.

The agency informed us that although we have already adopted a child we pretty much have to start all over again with the paperwork and home study visits.

From previous experience, I know it will be a tedious process, not the least of which is all the waiting: waiting to be contacted by the social worker, waiting for the home study to be written and approved by the state, and of course, waiting to be matched with a child.

The first time around, I discovered that this time of waiting provided an opportunity to gather information and prepare for the child’s arrival– things I knew I wouldn’t have time for once the child arrived.

One of the things that I did was read. I read parenting books, books about adopting children from foster care, and books about the types of behaviors one may expect from foster care kids.

I also obtained the 15 hours of training required by my state, completing several Webinars and some in-person training as well.

I gathered information about doctors, schools, and daycares. I visited some of the day’s cares and learned about local grade school enrollment procedures.

I knew we would need furniture for the child, so I shopped Craigslist and local thrift shops to find budget-friendly items.

I also used that time to find support groups in my area. When making any life change it is important to have a strong support group, preferably a local one.

Last but not least, while I was waiting I enjoyed the peace. I enjoyed the time that I had with just my husband because I knew that once the child arrived we would not have many quiet nights.

I am sure there are many more things that you can think of doing during the wait, but I wanted to share with you some of the things that I did that helped pass the time. So hurry up and wait!