Tue, Jun 17, 7pm-9pm	“Beyond Open Adoption” You have the ability to empower your adopted child with all of the pieces that make up who he or she really is at the same time you enjoy the comfort of being “real parents”. Reaching beyond the assumptions that are made about parental bonds in our society is critical. Challenges posed by the complexities of adoption provide opportunities for developing strong, positive relationships with our children. This discussion is lead by adoptive mother Diane Ratkovich, and will be held from 7p to 9p, at our offices. It is open to pre-adoptive and adoptive parents. Cost is $20 per family.
Tue, Jun 24, 7pm-9pm	“When You Miss The First Few Days, Months, Years” Join adoptive mother, Diane Ratkovich to learn about the long term effects of early loss, separation, living in another world and transitioning into home as it relates to your child(ren). Practical discussion and steps to help overcome every adoptive parent’s fears and enhance and nurture the mutual child- parent bond. This group is open to pre-adoptive and adoptive parents, and will be held from 7p to 9p, at our offices. Cost is $20 per family.
Dates TBA Fri, 6pm-10pm Sat, 1pm-5pm Sun, 1pm-5pm	"Becoming A Family, Adoptive Parent Education" This training is for any family who is considering domestic or international adoption or has already adopted. The three sessions of training will focus on several topics including Life in the Orphanage, Attachment, and Helping Your Child Adjust to a New Home. It is taught by a group of experienced adoption professionals who are also adoptive parents! Cost is $150 per family. All dates should be attended for a total of 12 hours. Your registration fee must be received two weeks in advance for us to hold your spot because classes fill up quickly!

"Helping Hands Waiting Families Group"
This group is for all families who are waiting: waiting for a referral, waiting to travel. Many aspects of this difficult time will be discussed in an open format. Join others who are at the same stage you are. Group meets the second Wednesday of every month, from 7-8:30 pm. Free, please call to register.

"Adopting Older Kids (A-okay!) Group"
Have you adopted a child over 2 years of age? Are you considering adopting an older child? This will be an ongoing, monthly group to discuss the issues involved in adopting domestic or international older children. Each month we will discuss a specific topic, share experiences and gather advice from others who have adopted older children. Group meets 2nd Friday of each month, from 630-830 p.m. Free. Please call to register.

"Adoption Playgroup"
This is an informal playgroup open to all who have adopted, regardless of agency. Moms and/or Dads are invited to come with their children for a morning of play, sharing, and conversation. Bring a child friendly snack to share and your own beverages. Group meets every Wednesday morning at the HATW office, 9:30-11:30 a.m. No fee. Please call to register & confirm current schedule.

Hands Across The Water holds monthly information meetings. Come learn about the options available to you in International and Waiting Child domestic adoption, and how Hands Across the Water could assist you with your “adoption journey.” Click here for the current schedule.

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