Most children coming through international adoption have mild orphanage delays. Children may have physical handicaps, correctable handicaps or have undiagnosed medical conditions. Children may have a history of being premature. They may have social histories that include family neglect, mental illness and/or alcohol abuse in one or both parents.

Families who will be adopting older children must be aware that these children have suffered some institutional and or emotional deprivation during their early years of life. The children we have worked with appear to be well cared for by caring and concerned caretakers. Characteristics of these children may be similar to those of any children with special needs stemming from lack of proper parenting, early loss or lack of attachment, a loss of personal history and genetic connection, geographical moves and the developmental delays that often result from such losses and institutional care.

Families considering international adoption must be prepared for the risks and unknowns. We urge you to talk with ALW about the risks and your concerns at every stage of the process.