by GIFT Coach | Jul 29, 2015 | Blogs by Sally Ankerfelt, General Discussion
Sally Ankerfelt, one of the co-founders of GIFT Family Services recently returned from a homeland trip to the Philippines. (Sally’s middle child, Elias, was born there.) They have agreed to share their thoughts about this trip. Their experience dovetails nicely...
by Gayle Swift | Nov 19, 2014 | Adoptive Parenting Skills/Tool, Building Connection
Adoptive parents rely on a well-stocked parenting tool box. Connecting with Kids Through Stories: Using Narratives to Facilitate Attachment in Adopted Children by Denise B. Lacher offers a novel technique based on sharing stories drawn from the actual experiences of a...
by Gayle Swift | Sep 9, 2014 | Difficult Discussions, Faith and Values, Post Adoption Challenges & Behaviors, Strengthening Family Relationships
Last week our blog focused on living the reality of unconditional love under extremely challenging circumstances. This week we will look at some challenges to telling the entire truth of “their story” to our children. Some children come to adoption because...
by GIFT Coach | Aug 27, 2014 | Difficult Discussions, Faith and Values, Post Adoption Challenges & Behaviors, Sexual abuse, Strengthening Family Relationships
How many times have you said, “Through adoption I’ve learned to love unconditionally”? Have you ever doubted that belief? Has it ever been rocked to the core by challenging circumstances or by the vehement disapproval of your child by a neighbor,...
by GIFT Coach | Aug 19, 2014 | Adoptive Parenting Skills/Tool, Blogs by Gayle Swift, General Discussion, Post Adoption Challenges & Behaviors, School & IEP Support, Strengthening Family Relationships
Over the next few weeks, schools around the country reopen. The air pulses with excitement. The lassitude of summer gives way to the frantic busy-ness of school. New supplies, new teachers, new classes all bring the anticipation of a fresh start. But school also...
