What Will My Referral Look Like from Mexico?

20
May

adoption from MexicoWe are very excited about receiving our first referrals in our Mexico program! Our first family was matched with a sibling set of two, 7 and 11 years old. From the time their dossiers were submitted to the adoption authority in Mexico to when they received their referrals, this family waited only seven months to be matched with children. We are thrilled for this family who will soon be traveling to meet their children.

Based on these recent referrals, we are happy to share what we are seeing as far as referral information from the State of Hidalgo, Mexico. The information contained in a referral from Mexico may vary based on the Mexican State in which the child resides, the child’s needs and the individuals preparing the report. However, based on these initial referrals, we are very pleased with the amount and depth of information provided by the country. Below you will find what recent families received as their referral information.

The social information provided to families is likely to vary depending on the child and their respective social history and behaviors. The following social information was provided to our families recently:

  • Name of children’s home (orphanage) and length of residence
  • Information regarding how the child adapts to schedules
  • Whether the child has siblings and may include description of relationship with siblings
  • How well the child obeys instructions from adults
  • Child’s general “likes” (i.e. sports, cartoons, favorite color, music, dolls, cars, etc.)
  • Linguistic ability
  • Observation of conduct and demeanor of child
  • Eating schedule and typical foods
  • May include cleaning habits and sleep cycle

The medical information includes:

  • Date of birth
  • History of hospital visits
  • Physical and/or mental diagnoses, if applicable
  • Psychological evaluation

Our families were provided with a detailed description of the child’s appearance, but not an actual photograph. In some Latin American countries there are concerns regarding the confidentiality of the children. The adoption authority is concerned for the child’s confidentiality and safety because the country is already disclosing a significant amount of detailed information about the child. The description of the child provided in the child’s documents included: height, weight, complexion, hair color and texture, eyes (description of eyebrows, color and size of the eyes), nose shape, lip size (full or thin), chin shape and forehead size.

Each referral may contain different information and MLJ can never guarantee the completeness or accuracy of any information received at time of referral. However, we are very encouraged to receive such detailed information. The more information that is shared the more parents can prepare to parent the specific child and for this we are grateful. We look forward to assisting our families adopting from Mexico and supporting them as they prepare to meet and parent their Mexican children.

For more information about adopting from Mexico, please contact us.

 

Nicole Skellenger works as MLJ Adoptions’ Chief Executive Officer and Adoption Attorney. Nicole has spent time in orphanages with children who have nothing and are desperate for affection and has committed herself to using her skills to create better futures for these deserving children.

Nicole Skellenger works as MLJ Adoptions’ Chief Executive Officer and Adoption Attorney. Nicole has spent time in orphanages with children who have nothing and are desperate for affection and has committed herself to using her skills to create better futures for these deserving children.