What are the behaviors that you see in those that you work with (parents or children) that are challenging and/or concerning? How do these behaviors present challenges in the work that you are doing with the child/family?
How do you currently understand the reasons for the behaviors that you see?
How do you respond to individuals who display the concerning, more challenging behaviors that you see?
If you were to interpret the behaviors that you see as being connected to loss, how would that change your approach? Be as specific as possible in describing what you would do differently.
In what ways do you create a safe environment in which parents can feel comfortable expressing their feelings?
Are you investing adequate time in the relationship with the child to promote a good working relationship? What can you do to improve your relationship?
Are you investing adequate time in the relationship with the parent to promote a good working relationship? What can you do to improve your relationship?
Although our emotional state influences the quality of our work, many of us aren't aware of how we're feeling or what the impact may be. Read this article by Tony Schwartz published in the The New York Times for more thoughts on this topic.
BOOK RECOMMENDATION
The Mulberry Bird, An Adoption Story, by Anne Braff Brodzinsky
In this new edition of a classic in adoption literature, Mother Bird rises to meet the challenges of bringing up her baby bird against all odds and elements. When a storm scatters her nest, she is forced to think about how best to care for her precious baby bird, and faces the heart-breaking choice of either continuing to struggle on her own, or giving her baby to another family of birds, to look after him and care for him in their strong, secure nest. This beautifully illustrated book sensitively explores prevalent issues in the adoption debate, from the enduring force of a birth parent's love to the importance of nurturing an adoptive child in its new environment. "The Mulberry Bird" is an important and enduring tale of sacrifice, wisdom and love, and is ideal for reading aloud with young children in adoptive families, their siblings, in school and with support staff.
