[.ca] Adopting a Toddler: : What Size Shoes Does She Wear? (ISBN 059524534X)

The basics, all under one cover.:
Denise Hoppenhauer's book, "Toddler Adoption, What Size Shoes Does She Wear", is a terrific asset for those about to begin the process of toddler adoption. It contains all the basic issues you'll want to begin to think about before you begin the process (paperwork, parenting classes, childproofing a house, setting up a nursery etc.), considerations while in the process (packing, donations and international travel), and issues you will face once you get home with your new child (attachment, eating issues, medical concerns, school etc.). There is a resource section at the back of the book with pertinent web links and names and addresses of agencies, organizations and professionals. She has a very good list of other books to look into for more in-depth reading on most of the topics she covers. Her personal experience as an adoptive mother through international adoption shines through every page but it is her easy yet straightforward professional style that allows you to cover a lot of ground without being overwhelmed. A must for those considering international toddler adoption.

Informative and Empowering:
I loved this book! Ms. Harris Hoppenhauer offers lots of practical advice for adoptive parents, including questions to ask caregivers, setting up a nursery, dealing with picky eaters, traveling overseas to complete an international adoption and so much more. Unlike some of the books on the market that leave you with more questions than answers about adopting a toddler, this book gives practical tips. I felt more confident and excited about adopting our toddler after reading this book. It's so good, in fact, that I've just loaned it to a friend who is also adopting a toddler.

Good...but was hoping for better:
This was a really good book. It does give the nuts and bolts for adopting toddlers. I have a better understanding of safety issues, first aid supplies that I should have on hand and what type of wardrobe I should buy before the adoption. However, I was also hoping for a breakdown, by age, of what toddlers need. At what age do they no longer need a stroller, highchair or changing table. All in all it is a good, and fast read. It was my own fault for expecting more.

Adopting a Toddler : What Size Shoes Does She Wear?:
This was a great book. It was the question on my mind when starting to do an international adoption. What size cloths should I bring over. This book is very informative and answers many of the questions you have about the sometimes confusing process of international adoption. With the cost of adoption we wanted to save money as much as possible but this book was definitely worth the money. My husband actually purchased it for a valentine's gift for me. What a great gift. I encourage anyone in adoption the process to read the book.

A "Must Read":
Ms. Hoppenhauer has written a gem... while there are lots of books on the trials and tribulations of International Adoption... "Adopting a Toddler" focuses on the PRACTICAL aspects of bringing a child into your home through International Adoption, and does so in such a warm style that you feel as if Denise is right there offering you answers based on her experience as an adoptive mother. As first time parents my husband and I have found the book an invaluable guide and a source of information we simply wouldn't have thought of. If you are considering adoption, or if you are in the middle of the paperchase... I highly recommend this book... by the time I travel, I will have to get a new copy since I carry it with me everywhere we go when shopping for our little girls.