International Adoption Center
Pre-Adoptive Parenting Class

INTRODUCTION:
The mission of the International Adoption Center's Parenting Classes is to assist future or current parents of internationally adopted children in the task of becoming a family. We understand that blending the newly adopted child into your current home life is a difficult, challenging and rewarding task.

In his book, Let's Talk About It: Adoption, Fred Rogers clearly states that a family is "..a group of people who care about who you are deep inside. Bloodlines and love lines don't necessarily coincide. When it comes to growing into a healthy, whole and fulfilled human being, it is love that counts the most".

The love that you have for your future or new child is a great place to start a family. These classes will help you with the everyday tasks that you will encounter while ushering your new child into adulthood.

The classes will be held on five consecutive Tuesday evenings at 7 p.m. in the lobby of the International Adoption Center, 8505 Arlington Blvd. Suite 100.

COURSE OUTLINE:

Classes focus on the unique needs of the recently adopted child from birth to age 4 years. Topics include:

• overview of ways the internationally adopted child differs from children born and raised in the United States
• attachment, family transition
• nutrition
• speech and language development
• gross and fine motor development
• behaviors and positive discipline
• safety
• general baby and child care
• Travel tips.

** If a family needs to miss a class due to travel of their adoption, the class may be made up during another session**

REGISTRATION:

The class is limited to 40 people. Preregistration is required. To Register please call (703) 970-2651 or complete the registration and email or fax to our office.

Cost
$125 per person
$145 per couple
Payment must be received at or before the first class. Cancellations must be made one week in advance for a refund. Childcare is not available on-site.

Class Sessions for 2007:
Session 1: April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
Session 2: September 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

All classes will begin promptly at 7 p.m. and end at 9 p.m.