For the estimated 2 million families in the United States waiting to adopt a child, the decision of which avenue to pursue can be overwhelming: domestic or international, older child versus younger, children with special needs?and the list goes on. This title offers all the information any potential or newly adoptive parent might need. This essential guidebook is packed with reassuring advice on how to handle the most common issues: questions to ask before adopting; bonding techniques?from newborn to teenager; adopting children with special needs; navigating international adoptions; helping the adopted child understand and cope with feelings of loss and abandonment; and navigating blended families, single parenting, or same-sex partnerships. With this book by their side, adoptive parents will bond with their child for a lifetime!