International adoption is a type of adoption that involves bringing home a child from someplace outside of the adoptive parents' home country. There are pros and cons to this type of adoption, and many families feel that this process is the right way for them to go....
Tips for successful co-parenting during summertime
With summer just around the corner, families are gearing up to begin their summer vacation time. Summer break can be challenging for divorced parents because they have to figure out how to split the time so they can both spend time with their child. Co-parenting is...
4 things you should know about stepparent adoptions
Forty percent of adoptions involve stepparents, tying stepparent adoptions for first place with foster care adoptions. In addition, these adoptions are typically less complicated than other types of adoption. If you seek to adopt your stepchildren, these are a few...
What you need to know about spousal support
Divorce can be a highly stressful experience, no matter how long you were married, or what the marriage was like. Divorce can be particularly stressful when it comes to finances. The financial changes that a divorce will bring can be hard to deal with. Understanding...
Is a narcissistic co-parent manipulating your child?
Coparenting after a divorce can be a difficult situation for anyone, but it can become even harder if you must co-parent with a narcissistic ex who tries to manipulate your child. According to Psychology Today, children come biologically programmed to protect their...
Missouri facing foster family shortage
If you have been thinking about adding a child to your home, now is a good time to consider fostering. According to state agencies, Missouri is facing a critical shortage of foster families. Why is this issue happening and what can you do to help? Why the shortage is...
Can your child choose which parent gets primary custody?
Determining a child custody arrangement that fits your family's needs can be a challenging part of the divorce process. It can become even more complex if your child does not want to spend time with one parent. Does your child have a say regarding who becomes the...
Adopting a stepchild? It’s a two-part process
When you married your spouse, it was with every intention to raise their child as if they were your own. You’ve taken over the role as their second parent and have been there for every major event from birthdays to athletic events. You’d like to take this one step...
3 ways to protect yourself before filing for divorce
If you are unhappy in your marriage, it is likely that you have been considering divorce for some time. You may have decided not to discuss your plans to file for divorce with your spouse because you want to buy yourself time to prepare. It is important that you do...
How easy is it for stepparents to adopt?
Marrying someone who already has children gives you the opportunity to be a new parent to children who may not have an active father or mother in their lives. Your relationship with the children of your spouse may become so strong that you want to take the next step...