Member-only story

West Meets East: Americans Adopt Chinese Children

Jedidiah Hayes

·13.6k Followers· Follow

Published in Raymond Miller

6 min read

658 View Claps

94 Respond

Save

Listen

In recent decades, adoption has become a popular way for families to grow. In the United States, one of the most popular countries to adopt from is China. In 2018, over 1,400 children were adopted from China by American families. This number has been steadily increasing over the past few years, as more and more families open their hearts and homes to Chinese children.

There are many reasons why American families choose to adopt from China. Some families are drawn to the country's rich culture and history. Others are motivated by a desire to help children in need. Still others simply fall in love with the beautiful children who are waiting to be adopted.

West Meets East: Americans Adopt Chinese Children

by Raymond Miller

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1772 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	208 pages

No matter what their reasons, American families who adopt from China are making a profound impact on the lives of these children. These children are given a chance to grow up in a loving home, and they are able to experience all the opportunities that life in the United States has to offer.

The Adoption Process

The adoption process from China can be long and complex. It typically takes several years to complete, and it requires a significant amount of paperwork and preparation. However, most families find that the process is worth it when they finally get to meet their child.

The first step in the adoption process is to find an adoption agency that specializes in placing children from China. There are a number of reputable agencies that can help you with this process. Once you have found an agency, you will need to complete an application and provide them with a variety of documents, including your financial records, medical history, and criminal background check.

Once your application has been approved, you will be placed on a waiting list. The length of time you wait will depend on a number of factors, including the age and needs of the child you are hoping to adopt. Once a child has been matched with you, you will be able to travel to China to meet them.

The meeting process can be both exciting and emotional. It is a time for you to get to know your child and to make sure that they are a good fit for your family. Once you have met your child, you will need to sign a number of legal documents and pay the adoption fees.

After your child has arrived in the United States, you will need to complete a post-placement process. This process typically takes six months to a year, and it includes a series of home visits and reports. Once the post-placement process is complete, your adoption will be finalized.

The Challenges of Adoption

Adopting a child from China can be a challenging experience. There are a number of potential issues that you may need to face, including:

Cultural differences: Chinese children may come from a very different cultural background than your own. This can lead to challenges in communication, behavior, and expectations.
Language barriers: Many Chinese children do not speak English when they are adopted. This can make it difficult to communicate with them and to help them adjust to their new life.
Medical issues: Some Chinese children may have medical issues that require special care. It is important to be aware of these issues before you adopt a child.
Emotional issues: Chinese children who have been institutionalized may have experienced trauma or neglect. This can lead to emotional issues that need to be addressed.

It is important to remember that these challenges are not insurmountable. With love, patience, and support, most families are able to overcome them and build a strong and lasting bond with their adopted child.

The Rewards of Adoption

Adopting a child from China can be a life-changing experience. For many families, it is the most rewarding thing they have ever done. Chinese children are often intelligent, loving, and resilient. They are eager to learn and to experience all that life has to offer.

Adopting a child from China is a commitment. It is a commitment to love and support your child unconditionally. It is a commitment to help them overcome any challenges they may face. It is a commitment to provide them with the best possible life.

If you are considering adopting a child from China, I encourage you to do your research and to talk to other families who have adopted from China. Adoption is not for everyone, but it can be the most incredible journey of your life.

Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:

AdoptUSKids: China
Holt International
Rainbow Kids

West meets East in the growing number of American families who are adopting Chinese children. These families are making a profound impact on the lives of these children, and they are also helping to build a more diverse and inclusive society.

West Meets East: Americans Adopt Chinese Children

by Raymond Miller

5 out of 5