Thursday, January 11, 2024

Making Adoption Affordable 2024


Law Offices of Karen S. Law, PLC
43330 Junction Plaza, Ste 164 #803
Ashburn, VA 20147
(703) 723-4385
Fax: (703) 723-7710
www.Lawadoption.com
KLaw@Lawadoption.com
FELLOW, AMERICAN ACADEMY OF ADOPTION ATTORNEYS
MEMBER, AMERICAN IMMIGRATION LAWYERS ASSOCIATION

 

Making Adoption Affordable

Federal Tax Credit

There is help available.  The adoption tax credit is adjusted each year based upon the cost-of-living allowance.  The maximum credit for 2024 is $16,810.  The adoption tax credit is fully available in the amount of $16,810 if your modified adjusted gross income is equal or less than $214,520.  If your modified adjusted gross income is more than $214,520 but less than $254,520, you will receive a reduced tax credit. No tax credit is available for those earning more than $254,520.

Documentation is important.  The form you submit to claim the credit is 8839.  The IRS web-site has additional helpful information: www.irs.gov, including what you will need to document the amount available for your credit. Generally, if you adopt a special needs child, you are eligible for the full amount of the credit, regardless of the costs you incurred.  If your adoption does not qualify as special needs, you must keep receipts of your expenditures, which you can claim up to the full credit amount.

Corporate Matching Gifts

Further, many large employers offer adoption assistance.  See htttp://benefits.adoption.com/ for a list of employers.  Those payments may qualify for exclusion from your income for tax purposes in addition to the federal tax credit.  You may exclude up to $16,810 from your income in 2024.  So, for example, if your employer offers adoption assistance payments of $5,000 and your total adoption related expenses were $20,950, you could claim $16,810 as a tax credit AND exclude $5,000 from your income.  However, if your total expenses were $16,810, you could not take the credit and the exclusion-the same expenses cannot be counted twice.  The income limits for the tax credit also apply to the exclusion.

Adoption Loans and Grants

Adoption Loans can be obtained from Americas Christian Credit Union or Entrust Financial Credit Union, among other financial service providers.  Additionally, a number of foundations provide grants with specific eligibility criteria.

Adoption Subsidies and Financial Aid for Adopting an Older Child

If you adopt a special needs child or a child from foster care, the cost is usually less.  A monthly adoption subsidy is often available to help pay for everyday expenses and special services such as remedial educational services, physical therapy and medical care.  You may also take the entire amount of the federal tax credit even if you don’t incur those costs.


Prepared by Alyssa Howes, Paralegal, and Karen S. Law, Esquire, of Law Offices of Karen S. Law, PLC © 2024

Disclaimer:

    This web site and the information contained within have been prepared by the Law Offices of Karen S. Law, PLC for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. This information is not intended to create, nor does receipt of it constitute an attorney-client relationship. Viewers should not act upon information found here without seeking legal counsel. All photographs shown on this blog are depictions of clients and are not actual clients of this law firm. Copyright Karen S. Law, 2024.

Adopting as a Foster Parent

Within the realm of adoption, there are stories that stand out for their unique challenges and triumphs. In this article, we present an insightful interview with a single father who defied conventional expectations by adopting three teenagers from foster care. Through his experiences, we aim to provide practical insights and valuable lessons for foster parents considering the significant step of adopting their foster children. Join us as we explore the complexities and realities of foster care adoption in this informative account.

John's journey into foster parenting began when he welcomed a 17-year-old from El Salvador into his home. The teenager had faced neglect and struggled to form connections, making the fostering experience challenging yet deeply rewarding for John. This initial encounter sparked a commitment within him to continue working with foster children, particularly teenagers. Over time, John earned the moniker of the "teenage guru" due to his exceptional rapport and success in guiding older foster children. Despite the increased difficulty in finding foster homes for teenagers, John opened his heart and home to them, striving to be a mentor and life coach.

As a high school teacher, John's natural affinity for helping teenagers smoothly translated into his role as a foster parent. His dedication deepened when he received a call about fostering three siblings. Over the course of a year, John cultivated a strong and nurturing relationship with all three, becoming a stabilizing force in their lives. When the Department of Social Services approached him with the idea of adoption, John's unequivocal response was "absolutely yes." For him, the decision was grounded in an unwavering belief that these siblings belonged with him, and he couldn't fathom them anywhere else. In embracing the challenge of adopting three teenagers, John seamlessly blended his roles as an educator and a devoted father, providing a beacon of hope for others contemplating a similar path.


Navigating the intricate balance of being a single parent to three teenagers and working as a high school teacher required a strategic approach for John. Central to his success was a support system that extended beyond family to his workplace. Both his family and work colleagues played pivotal roles in ensuring John could manage his responsibilities effectively. The understanding and support he received from the school's principal and work family allowed him the flexibility needed for foster parenting. John's family, too, actively contributed to the well-being of the kids, engaging in various activities and fostering a sense of inclusion.

            John's adept scheduling skills proved invaluable in juggling the busy lives of teenagers. As he notes, managing time efficiently became a cornerstone of maintaining order and ensuring that all aspects of his life could fit together. Trust formed the foundation of John's relationship with his kids, instilling a sense of responsibility in them. This mutual trust facilitated a structured routine, with the confidence that the teenagers would adhere to their schedules and fulfill their commitments. In balancing his parenting and professional life, John's ability to build strong connections and establish trust became essential pillars in creating a harmonious family dynamic.

For John, navigating the legal terrain of adopting his foster children proved to be a journey more characterized by patience than challenges. Although the process spanned over a year, the anticipation of officially becoming a family overshadowed the duration. Contrary to initial expectations, the legal proceedings unfolded smoothly without any unexpected hurdles. During the waiting period, both John and the kids eagerly anticipated the day when they would officially become a family.

Home studies, an integral component of the adoption process, brought a level of scrutiny that foster parents should be prepared for. John emphasized the necessity of enduring personal questions, acknowledging the intrusive nature of these inquiries. Social workers, he noted, conducted thorough investigations, ensuring that prospective parents met the required standards. John recognized the importance of this step in ensuring the well-being of the children.

Throughout the legal journey, having a reliable and transparent attorney was instrumental. John’s lawyer, Karen S. Law, played a crucial role by providing guidance and information at every step. John emphasized the significance of finding legal counsel that not only navigates the complexities of adoption but also keeps the adoptive parents informed and involved. Additionally, social workers played a pivotal role, regularly checking in with both John and the children. John appreciated their holistic approach, ensuring that adoption was the right decision for everyone involved. By giving the teenagers a platform to express their feelings and provide feedback, social workers not only facilitated the legal process but also granted the adolescents a sense of autonomy in a significant life decision.

John's advice for those contemplating fostering or adopting teenagers revolves around building a strong support network. He underscores the importance of surrounding oneself with people genuinely committed to being hands-on in the children's lives; individuals who are ready to offer love, support, and assistance when needed. For John, this network comprised of family, friends, and his work family at the school where he teaches. In times of challenge or uncertainty, these supportive connections became a pillar of strength.

Scheduling, according to John, is another critical element for both parents and teenagers. Establishing a daily routine not only provides structure but also helps the children understand and meet expectations on a day-to-day basis. This sense of predictability fosters a stable environment, contributing to the well-being of both the parent and the adopted teens. Furthermore, John emphasizes the value of open communication and dialogue within the family. Regular family meetings create a means for checking in with each other, ensuring that everyone's concerns are heard and fostering a sense of unity within the family unit.

Besides the practicalities of daily life, John offered advice on creating a nurturing environment and having shared experiences. His adopted family is built on a foundation of shared adventures and memories, especially enjoying traveling together. John believes in providing his children with experiences outside their norm, exposing them to possibilities they might never have imagined. In doing so, he emphasizes the transformative power of offering new opportunities and resources to foster children, allowing them to grow and evolve as individuals.

For John, the key is to evolve alongside your children, actively creating experiences and cultivating a sense of anticipation for the future. This dynamic approach not only strengthens the familial bond but also instills a sense of possibility and optimism in the lives of the adopted teenagers. Additionally, he highlights the importance of building an environment and lifestyle conducive to the social, emotional, and mental well-being of the children. By prioritizing these aspects, John has witnessed the positive impact on his children's growth, creating a family dynamic that is not only supportive but also rich in opportunities for personal development.

In concluding John's remarkable journey into fostering and adopting teenagers, it becomes evident that his story is one of resilience, love, and shared growth. From the initial challenge of connecting with a neglected 17-year-old to becoming the parent of three siblings, John's path was marked by unwavering support, meticulous scheduling, and open communication. The legal process, though lengthy, unfolded smoothly, with social workers and a dedicated attorney playing pivotal roles. John's advice echoes the importance of building a strong support network, maintaining a structured routine, and fostering open dialogue within the family.

As we reflect on John's experiences, a heartfelt message emerges for those considering a similar path. To fellow foster parents contemplating adoption, John extends the wisdom of creating a family built on shared experiences and memories, expanding horizons through travel, and offering new possibilities to the children in their care. He encourages parents to evolve alongside their children, actively creating meaningful experiences and fostering a lifestyle that nurtures social, emotional, and mental well-being. In John's words, "evolve with your children, create experiences, have things to look forward to." The journey may be challenging, but it is, above all, a journey of transformation, love, and the boundless potential that emerges when hearts open to the possibilities of creating a forever family.


Prepared by Alyssa Howes, Paralegal, and Karen S. Law, Esquire, of Law Offices of Karen S. Law, PLC © 2024

Disclaimer:

    This web site and the information contained within have been prepared by the Law Offices of Karen S. Law, PLC for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. This information is not intended to create, nor does receipt of it constitute an attorney-client relationship. Viewers should not act upon information found here without seeking legal counsel. All photographs shown on this blog are depictions of clients and are not actual clients of this law firm. Copyright Karen S. Law, 2024.

Thursday, October 12, 2023

Navigating the Path of Private Adoption: A Comprehensive Guide

Private adoption is a profound and life-changing journey that connects loving families with children who need a forever home. In this article, we will discuss the intricacies of private adoption and explore the role of facilitators in this process. Our aim is to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of private adoption, from the initial steps to the legal aspects involved.

What is Private Adoption?

Private adoption, often known as independent adoption or direct parental placement, is a non-agency adoption method in which prospective adoptive parents directly connect with birth parents to adopt a child. Unlike agency adoption, private adoption typically does not involve a licensed adoption agency as the intermediary. Instead, unlicensed attorneys and social workers assist with the process. This is a unique path to building a family, and it allows for a personal connection between the birth and adoptive families. This approach can potentially be a positive experience for the parties involved; however, it does come with risks and the outcome is not promised.

The Role of Facilitators

Facilitators are often involved in matching the parties in private adoption. Their sole purpose is to act as a match maker between the birth parents and adoptive parents. Working with a facilitator is much different than working with a full-service agency. It is often the case that facilitators are unlicensed and unregulated intermediaries. Many services such as counseling and legal assistance must be outsourced because the facilitator is unable to provide them. Because many states ban unlicensed facilitators, including Virginia and California, our office does not recommend working with them. (Law and McDonough, 2014).

Adoption Agency vs. Facilitators

It is often hard to know if an adoption entity is a licensed agency or a facilitator.  If in doubt, look for evidence that the entity has a license from their state to provide adoption services.

Working with a licensed adoption agency provides numerous benefits, including legal expertise, thorough evaluation, matching services, ongoing support, and accountability. These advantages help ensure a smoother and more secure adoption process for all parties. When considering private adoption, it is advisable to prioritize the expertise and services provided by reputable adoption agencies and attorneys over unlicensed facilitators to make the journey as positive and legally secure as possible.

Agencies have well-established networks and databases for matching birth parents with adoptive families. They also ensure that every step of the adoption process complies with the legal requirements, protecting the rights and interests of all parties involved. On the other hand, unlicensed facilitators may lack the legal expertise and oversight to ensure that the adoption is conducted in full compliance with the law. Additionally, adoption agencies offer comprehensive support throughout the entire adoption journey, from pre-placement counseling to post-placement services. They provide resources, guidance, and emotional support to both birth and adoptive parents. Unlicensed facilitators may not have the capacity to offer the same level of ongoing support, leaving adoptive parents without crucial assistance during the emotional and logistical challenges of adoption.

Steps in Private Adoption

  1. Initial Consultation: Prospective adoptive parents often begin by consulting with an attorney experienced in adoption. They will discuss their adoption goals, preferences, and expectations. Adoption laws vary by state, so you need an attorney licensed in your state.
  2. Home Study: A home study is required, where a social worker evaluates the adoptive family's home and life circumstances to ensure a safe and nurturing environment for the child.
  3. Matching Process: Birth parents and adoptive parents most often find each other through word of mouth. In Virginia and many other states, adoptive parents can lawfully use licensed entities to connect with birth parents, such as AdoptMatch.com AdoptMatch - Find Adoptive Parents, Adoption Agencies and Attorneys or Adoptimist Meet Families Ready To Adopt A Baby | Adoption Profiles (adoptimist.com). Attorneys or unlicensed facilitators are prohibited.
  4. Legal Proceedings: The attorney guides both parties through the legal requirements, which include parental consent or relinquishment, counseling, and the creation of an adoption plan. Both birth parent and adoptive parent will have separate representation. Parental rights are usually terminated first. Then, the adoption is finalized in the child’s new name.
  5. Post-Placement Support: Both before and after the adoption is finalized, we recommend adoption competent counseling for birth parents.  The goal is to provide resources to the birth parent to assist them with the transition. Additionally, many states, such as Virginia, have enforceable agreements which are negotiated between the birth parent and the adoptive parent (PACCAS). These PACCAS govern the exchange of pictures and updates concerning the child, and sometimes, visitation.

Legal Aspects of Private Adoption

To locate an adoption competent attorney, the Academy of Adoption and Assisted Reproduction Attorneys has a website which lists attorneys by state: Home- Academy of Adoption & Assisted Reproduction Attorneys (adoptionart.org). These attorneys have been carefully vetted and have extensive experience in this unique practice of law.

Private adoption involves intricate legal procedures to safeguard the rights and interests of all parties. It's crucial to work with experienced adoption attorneys who understand the specific laws and regulations in your state. This ensures that the adoption process is compliant with local legal requirements.

In conclusion, private adoption is a deeply emotional and rewarding journey. Choosing whether to work with a licensed adoption agency or attorney versus an unlicensed facilitator is one of the crucial decisions prospective adoptive parents face. If you're considering private adoption, consult with experienced professionals to guide you through this life-changing experience.



Source:

Law, K. S., & McDonough, T. M. (2014, April 1). The Role of Facilitators in Adoption. National Council for Adoption. https://adoptioncouncil.org/publications/adoption-advocate-no-70/

 

Prepared by Alyssa Howes, Paralegal, and Karen S. Law, Esquire, of Law Offices of Karen S. Law, PLC © 2023

Disclaimer:

    This web site and the information contained within have been prepared by the Law Offices of Karen S. Law, PLC for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. This information is not intended to create, nor does receipt of it constitute an attorney-client relationship. Viewers should not act upon information found here without seeking legal counsel. All photographs shown on this blog are depictions of clients and are not actual clients of this law firm. Copyright Karen S. Law, 2023.

Wednesday, August 9, 2023

A Single Parent's Journey of Intercountry Adoption

 

In our practice of adoption law, we have heard countless stories of clients who inspire us with their resilience and determination. One such remarkable story is that of Amy, a brave single parent who embarked on an extraordinary journey of international adoption. Amy opened her heart and home to two children from a country in the Middle East. Adopting internationally is a major life decision that comes with both challenges and rewards. It requires navigating complex legal processes, embracing cultural differences, and having unwavering commitment. Amy accepted these challenges, motivated by the desire to provide a loving home for a child in need.

We had the opportunity to interview Amy about her experience, we discussed the joys, trials, and lessons learned throughout her journey. Her story serves as a testament to the compassion and dedication embodied by adoptive parents. Through Amy's story, we aim to inspire and educate others, shedding light on the profound impact adoption can have on the lives of both parent and child.

Amy’s decision to adopt internationally was deeply rooted in her upbringing and the experiences that shaped her worldview. Amy grew up overseas as the daughter of a diplomat, and with a mother who dedicated her time to volunteering at orphanages. Early in her life, Amy witnessed firsthand the plight of countless children without loving homes. This experience weighed heavily on her heart and ignited a desire to make a difference and provide a loving family for a child in need.

The journey of international adoption can be complex, requiring collaboration with an adoption agency to navigate the complicated legal processes. This is required for every intercountry adoption by the Universal Accreditation Act of 2012. Finding an accredited agency to supervise the process can be challenging. Amy’s experience of working with an adoption agency to build her family was a positive one. The agency provided invaluable support and guidance, particularly in navigating the U.S. side of the adoption process. While the overseas aspect of the adoption was more challenging, Amy appreciated the agency's realistic approach, they managed her expectations and made her aware of the potential obstacles. The agency's responsiveness and dedication to keeping her informed every step of the way provided her with a sense of comfort and reassurance during the often emotional and uncertain process.

Preparing yourself and your home for the arrival of adopted children requires careful consideration and cultural sensitivity. However, for Amy, the process was somewhat easier because she shared a cultural background with her children, having originally come from the same country. This shared heritage not only eased potential cultural barriers but also facilitated a deeper connection based on common language and religion. Despite the inevitable adjustments that come with any major life change, the familiar cultural foundation created a solid platform for Amy and her children to build their relationship upon. Now that Amy and her children are home in the United States, they have focused on doing life as a family. Amy has enrolled the children in school, placing the children in classes with special resources for non-native English speakers. She works remotely to be available for her children after school. The children needed routine immunizations and dental care. As the attachment grew, she introduced the children to extended family and friends.

Our office worked with Amy to finalize her adoption in Virginia, which is required under the Child Citizenship Act of 2000 to give children United States Citizenship. We have also filed for proof of United States citizenship for the children with USCIS. The children should soon be full United States citizens.

Amy's inspiring journey of international adoption as a single parent showcases the profound impact that one person can have on the lives of others. Her story exemplifies the importance of creating a nurturing and supportive environment for children who have endured challenging circumstances.

 Karen S. Law

Law Offices of Karen S. Law, PLC

klaw@lawadoption.com | (703) 723 – 4385

Prepared by Alyssa Howes, paralegal, with assistance from Karen S. Law

Disclaimer:

    This web site and the information contained within have been prepared by Law Offices of Karen S. Law, PLC for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. This information is not intended to create, nor does receipt of it constitute an attorney-client relationship. Viewers should not act upon information found here without seeking legal counsel. All photographs shown on this blog are depictions of clients and are not actual clients of this law firm. Copyright Karen S. Law, 2023.

Thursday, October 27, 2022

Updated Federal Adoption Tax Credit for 2023

    Many people are unaware of the federal Adoption Tax Credit. This is a huge help for them to be reimbursed for their adoption expenses.  Usually, you have to spend the money for allowable adoption expenses to get the credit.  However, if you adopt from foster care, you get the entire tax credit even though you have not spent those funds.  You just have to establish that the child qualifies as a special needs child.

    More information about the tax credit can be found here:  Topic No. 607 Adoption Credit and Adoption Assistance Programs | Internal Revenue Service (irs.gov)

    The maximum credit available for adoptions finalized in 2023 is $15,950.  The adoption tax credit is fully available in the amount of $15,950 if your modified adjusted gross income is equal or less than $239,230.  If your modified adjusted gross income is more than $239,230 but less than $279,230, you will receive a reduced tax credit. No tax credit is available for those earning more than $279,230. The form you submit to claim the credit is 8839. Remember to keep receipts of your expenditures, which you can claim up to the full credit amount.

Wednesday, August 17, 2022

COVID-19 Pandemic and Shutdown Increases Stresses in Foster Care for Children, Birth Parents, Social Workers and Licensed Foster Care Providers (Updated August 2022)

 Karen S. Law

Law Offices of Karen S. Law, PLC

klaw@lawadoption.com | (703) 723 – 4385

Prepared by Alyssa Howes, paralegal, with assistance from Karen S. Law

 

Drug Use During Pandemic Increases the Number of Children Entering Foster Care

        According to the CDC, as of June 2020, 13% of Americans reported starting or increasing substance use as a way of managing stress or emotions caused by the pandemic (Czeisler, 2020). A reporting system called “ODMAP,” Overdose Detection Mapping Application Program, found that there was an 18% increase in overdoses nationwide during the early months of the pandemic compared to the same months in 2019. Statistics have shown that this trend continued throughout 2020. In December of 2020, the American Medical Association reported that at least 40 U.S. states have seen increases in opioid-related deaths, as well as continuing concerns for those with substance abuse disorders (Abramson, 2021).

        Mandy Owens, PhD, a psychologist and researcher at the University of Washington Alcohol and Drug Abuse Institute, says that along with the sudden increase in substance use during the pandemic, she has observed an increase in both quantity and frequency of drug use. Research on drug use and overdose deaths have demonstrated that covid-related stressors, such as financial instability, loneliness, and anxiety about the virus, have contributed immensely to the increase in drug use. William Stoops, PhD, professor of behavioral science, psychiatry and psychology at the University of Kentucky says, “People are more stressed and isolated, so they make unhealthy decisions, including drinking more and taking drugs.” (Abramson, 2021).

        Although we do not yet have hard statistics, we can surmise from the increased use of substances and the general increase in poverty and homelessness during COVID-19, that more birth parents will have children removed for abandonment, abuse, and neglect. It will be challenging for them to regain custody of their children under the circumstances.

        There are also practical, as well as systemic barriers to reunification. For example, parenting reunification visits have had to be conducted remotely, not in person, due to COVID-19. Additionally, social services agencies have workers working remotely. It may be more difficult for birth parents to utilize in person services. For the most part, states have been able to adapt to the challenge of remotely conducting adoptions and foster care placements; but caseworkers in New York, for example, report that COVID-19 has made it much more difficult to do their jobs of serving the over 400,000 children currently in the system (Dodge, 2021).

 

Fewer Foster Parents Available

        More kids have been entering the foster care system during the pandemic, but there are fewer families who are willing to take them in (Adams, 2020). Lyndsey C. Wilson, CEO of First Star, a national nonprofit that supports children in foster care, spoke to her experience during the pandemic: she has seen children transferred from foster placement to foster placement, through no fault of the child, but because the caregivers are concerned about Covid-19 (Adams, 2020). Health concerns, related to COVID-19, discourage people who want to foster children from doing so. There are many foster parents who have health issues and/or are immunocompromised, and they are apprehensive about expanding their households currently. This is a realistic concern. In Texas, for example, child welfare agencies have reported that children in foster care are contracting COVID-19 at twice the rate of the general population (Adams, 2020).

        In addition to health concerns, fewer people are willing to take care of foster children during this time due to financial strain. The economic fallout of COVID-19 and the shutdown have devastated some foster parents financially, leaving them unable to take in new children. Many foster parents have experienced job loss due the pandemic. Because a stable financial situation is a requirement for fostering children, this has disqualified them from qualifying as a foster parent.

 

Children Aging Out Face Extra Challenges

        Child welfare professionals are also concerned about teens aging out, or “emancipating,” from foster care. When the child reaches that point, between ages 18 and 21 depending on the state, local governments are no longer required to provide them financial assistance. Even before COVID-19, this transition into adulthood was a difficult period for the 20,000 emancipated foster youth each year (Dodge, 2021). During the pandemic, those aging out of foster care are faced with a great deal of problems and it is evident that many are struggling to manage. In May of 2020, FosterClub, a non-profit organization supporting youth in foster care, conducted a survey of 613 former foster youth, ages 18 to 24, to gain insight on how the pandemic was affecting young adults who were previously in the foster care system. According to the results, 65% of respondents working before the pandemic reported losing their jobs, 23% said they were experiencing housing insecurity, and only 37% said they had an adult they could turn to (Dodge, 2021).

 

Increasing Teen Suicide Rates and Necessity of Additional Mental Health Services

        Since the beginning of the pandemic, healthcare providers across the country have reported increases in mental-health related emergencies in adolescents. According to the CDC, between February and March of 2020, suspected suicide attempts among girls ages 12-17 was 50.6% higher than it was during the same time in 2019; among boys aged 12–17 years, suspected suicide attempt emergency department visits increased 3.7% (Yard, et al. 2021). Additionally, among adolescents ages 12–17, the proportion of emergency department visits related to mental health increased by 31% in 2020 compared to 2019. Researchers for the CDC suspect that risk factors for suicide include physical distancing (including school attendance and social contact with teachers and peers); lack of access to mental health treatment; increases in substance use; and anxiety about family health and economic problems (Yard, et al. 2021).

        Reporters for NPR spoke with providers at hospitals in seven states across the country, to investigate recent mental health trends among adolescents. All the hospitals reported that more suicidal children are visiting their hospitals, and they are in worse mental states (Chatterjee, 2021). Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis reported that the number of adolescents hospitalized after suicide attempts increased from 67 to 108, from 2019 to 2020. Hillary Blake, a pediatric psychologist at the hospital, said that October 2020 showed a 250% increase in these numbers when compared to October 2019 (Chatterjee, 2021). The pandemic has created many stress factors for children, which are increasing the risk of suicide for many. COVID-19 and the shutdown have worsened the children's mental health crisis, which was already an issue before the pandemic. For a decade, suicide rates have been going up among adolescents (Chatterjee, 2021).

        Due to the exacerbation of mental health crises among adolescents in general, one would expect that there would be an increased need for therapy and mental health services to teens in foster care. Both foster care parents and social workers will need to be proactive in obtaining the appropriate care for children who are suffering during this time.

 

Students in Foster Care Fall Behind in School

According to a national assessment, most students in the United States fell behind in school by between three and six months (Belkin, 2022). Children lost a significant amount of classroom time during the pandemic. Worldwide, school closures lasted an average of 224 days over the last two years. Researchers have taken a look at a study that was done on students in Argentina between 1988 and 2014, which may be able to help us predict some of the long-term effects of missed class time. Teacher strikes were very common during that period in Argentina, and students in certain regions missed an average of 88 days during their years in primary-school. Data showed that, as adults, the students in the regions with the most missed class time had higher rates of unemployment and earned less money at their jobs than those who did not miss class time due to teacher strikes (Belkin, 2022).

Approximately 270,000 out of the 400,000 children in foster care are school-aged. Even before the pandemic, research has shown that foster youth are more likely than their peers to experience hardships over the course of their education that lead to worse outcomes. On average, students in foster care earn lower grades and have lower high school graduation rates (US Dept. of Education, 2016). Foster parents and social workers need to assess learning-loss in their foster children; how much learning-loss has accrued and what subject areas is the child most behind in. With that knowledge, foster parents and social workers can give these children the tools they need to overcome the setbacks in their education caused by the pandemic.

 

Sources:

 

Abramson, A. (2021, March). Substance use during the pandemic. American Psychological Association. Monitor on Psychology, 52(2). http://www.apa.org/monitor/2021/03/substance-use-pandemic

 

Adams, C. (2020, December 30). Foster care crisis: More kids are entering, but fewer families are willing to take them in. NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/news/nbcblk/foster-care-crisis-more-kids-are-entering-fewer-families-are-n1252450

 

Chatterjee, R. (2021, February 2). Child Psychiatrists Warn That The Pandemic May Be Driving Up Kids' Suicide Risk. NPR. https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2021/02/02/962060105/child-psychiatrists-warn-that-the-pandemic-may-be-driving-up-kids-suicide-risk

 

Czeisler, M.É., Lane, R.I., Petrosky, E., et al. (2020, August 14) Mental Health, Substance Use, and Suicidal Ideation During the COVID-19 Pandemic — United States, June 24–30, 2020. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 69(32), 1049–1057. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm6932a1

 

Dodge, D. (2021, January 8). Foster Care Was Always Tough. Covid-19 Made It Tougher. New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2021/01/08/parenting/foster-care-coronavirus.html

 

US Department of Education (ED). (2016, June 27). Students in foster care. Home. Retrieved from https://www2.ed.gov/about/inits/ed/foster-care/index.html

 

Yard ,E., Radhakrishnan, L., Ballesteros, M. F., Sheppard, M., Gates et al. (2021, June 18). Emergency Department Visits for Suspected Suicide Attempts Among Persons Aged 12–25 Years Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic — United States, January 2019–May 2021. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 70(24), 888–894. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7024e1

 

Disclaimer:

    This web site and the information contained within have been prepared by Law Offices of Karen S. Law, PLC for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. This information is not intended to create, nor does receipt of it constitute an attorney-client relationship. Viewers should not act upon information found here without seeking legal counsel. All photographs shown on this blog are depictions of clients and are not actual clients of this law firm. Copyright Karen S. Law, 2022.

Friday, May 20, 2022

NCFA: Adoption by the Numbers - 2019 & 2020

The National Council for Adoption (NCFA) just published a report on US adoption statistics for the years 2019 and 2020. This comprehensive research can clarify misconceptions, influence policy decisions, and help professionals to better serve the adoption community.

Click the link below to read the report:

 Adoption by the Numbers - National Council For Adoption (adoptioncouncil.org)