by GIFT Coach | Aug 19, 2014 | Adoptive Parenting Skills/Tool, Blogs by Gayle Swift, Faith and Values, 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...
by GIFT Coach | Jul 1, 2014 | Blogs by Gayle Swift, Blogs by Joann DiStefano, General Discussion
Starting a difficult conversation can be challenging whether it is with a spouse, friend co-worker, stranger or family member. But holding adoption conversations with kids can be especially hard when the information being shared is painful or difficult to accept. To...
by GIFT Coach | Jun 4, 2014 | Blogs by Gayle Swift, Blogs by Joann DiStefano
There is a quote from Allegiant by Veronica Roth that has intrigued me since I read it. It states that, “Since I was young, I have always known this: Life damages us, everyone. We can’t escape that damage. But now, I am also learning this: We can be...
by Sally A | Feb 21, 2013 | Adoptive Parenting Skills/Tool, Blogs by Gayle Swift, Blogs by Joann DiStefano, General Discussion
We continue to learn from Christina White’s blog post chronicling her abusive childhood. She wrote that she “wanted to be normal and loving.” And that she needed a safe haven. As parents we strive to create a safe haven in our home and establish an environment of love...